Georgia Tech Tops No. 12 Clemson with Game-Winning Field Goal
Clemson’s struggles in the first half continued as they fell to Georgia Tech in a thrilling finish, losing on a 55-yard field goal by Aidan Birr as time expired at Bobby Dodd Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
Despite trailing by double digits, the Tigers managed to tie the game with 3:26 left. However, Georgia Tech quickly covered 38 yards on their next possession to set up Birr’s game-winning kick, handing Clemson their first ACC loss of the season.
Although Clemson outgained Georgia Tech in total yards, turnovers and missed tackles plagued the Tigers throughout the game, keeping the contest close but never fully in their control.
Clemson’s first-half struggles persisted, with quarterback Cade Klubnik turning the ball over early, leading to Georgia Tech’s first points. At one point, it appeared the Yellow Jackets might run away with the game, but Clemson slowly found their rhythm on offense.
Down by as much as 13 points, the Tigers’ defense stepped up in the second half, forcing two three-and-outs to shift the momentum, including a touchdown that gave Clemson its first and only lead of the game.
The Tigers’ rushing attack started to gain traction after a key 30-yard run by Adam Randall on a 3rd-and-22 play. Randall finished the game with 80 yards and a touchdown.
Clemson’s final drive of the first half resulted in their first points, with Klubnik running in a one-yard touchdown. In the second half, he connected with wide receiver Bryant Wesco Jr. for a 73-yard touchdown to give the Tigers their only lead.
However, Georgia Tech answered back with a 13-play, 90-yard drive capped by a one-yard touchdown run by quarterback Haynes King, who also added a successful two-point conversion for a seven-point lead. Clemson responded with another long drive, ending with Randall’s two-yard touchdown run, but it wasn’t enough.
Klubnik finished with 207 yards and a touchdown, but also threw an interception and fumbled during the game. He added 62 yards and a score on the ground. Wesco led the receivers with 126 yards and a touchdown on seven catches.
Clemson will return home to face Syracuse next Saturday at noon.
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