After Clemson’s four possessions in the first quarter resulted in three punts and an interception, the Tigers finally got things going offensively against NC State in the second frame.
Running back Phil Mafah plowed into the end zone from 1 yard out for a touchdown with 8:24 left before halftime, cutting Clemson’s deficit to 10-7.
The score capped a nine-play, 75-yard drive that spanned 3:47. Tight end Jake Briningstool kickstarted the drive with a 17-yard catch on the first play of the possession, and wide receiver Beaux Collins made a great grab to haul in a 28-yard reception on a third-and-2 play at the 50-yard line.
Running back Will Shipley also played a key role in the drive, rushing for 9 yards on three carries and catching a couple of passes for 20 yards. Unfortunately, he went down on the second catch when he was hit in the head/neck area on a scary-looking collision before attended to by trainers.
The good news is Shipley was able to walk off the field under his own power.
We have just added a new special to our store. Get the Two Pack of signed footballs from Clemson’s 2022 and 2023 classes and save $75. Thanks for your support of Clemson football.