Clemson football’s defense set the tone early against The Citadel, delivering a game-changing play late in the first quarter.
With the Bulldogs facing third-and-13 at Clemson’s 43-yard line, linebacker Sammy Brown blitzed up the middle, forcing Citadel quarterback Jonathan Bennett into an ill-advised throw. Defensive tackle Payton Page intercepted the pass and rumbled 57 yards to the end zone, with Ricardo Jones providing a key block to secure the score. The play gave Clemson a commanding 14-0 lead with 3:17 left in the first quarter.
Before the defensive highlight, the Tigers’ offense struck first with an efficient opening drive.
Cade Klubnik led a five-play, 78-yard march, capping it off with a perfectly placed 30-yard touchdown pass to Antonio Williams. Klubnik went a flawless 3-for-3 for 50 yards on the drive, notching his 27th touchdown of the season, with Williams claiming his ninth scoring grab.
This dynamic start propelled Clemson to a strong first quarter, showcasing their dominance on both sides of the ball.