CLEMSON –The Clemson Tigers followed up a near-perfect half of football with a turnover that led to a touchdown to make it a 24-16 game in Death Valley. After the momentum switch, Clemson responded with a 5:59 touchdown drive, led by running back Phil Mafah.
The offensive drive started rolling with an 11-yard gain by tight end Jake Briningstool. Wide receiver Troy Stellato furthered this advance with a 14-yard reception.
Running back Phil Mafah was the star of the drive that was composed of 11 plays and 75 yards. Mafah put a bow on it, barreling through defenders at the goal line for his second score of the game. The junior running back has 19 carries with 128 yards on the day, both career-highs. He also rushed for multiple touchdowns in back-to-back games for the first time in his career.
With the score, Clemson took a 31-15 lead with 8:08 to play. Notre Dame responded with a touchdown of their own, and the Tigers hold a 31-23 lead with 6:05 to play in the third quarter.