Clemson jumped out to a 7-0 lead with 2:51 to go in the first quarter, on a two-yard touchdown run from Kelly Bryant. The drive consisted of six plays for 20 yards and lasted 2:45.

The Tigers took over on the Florida State 20-yard line after linebacker Tre Lamar forced a Seminole fumble. They ran the ball five out of six plays with Bryant toting the rock on the last two plays for gains of five and two yards, including the touchdown run.