CLEMSON — A disappointing Clemson loss didn’t overshadow the performance of wide receiver Antonio Williams, who was one of the brightest spots on the Tigers’ offense Saturday.

Williams’ number was called time and time again, making key plays and proving once again why he’s been one of Clemson’s most consistent offensive weapons over the past few seasons. The junior star delivered a career day, totaling 164 all-purpose yards, including ten receptions for 142 yards and two touchdowns, one of which was a 64-yard highlight.

Despite the team’s struggles, Williams’ love for the game and his teammates was evident.

“No matter how many times we lose, I just don’t grow numb to it,” Williams said. “I just love playing with these guys.”

Williams acknowledged that Clemson’s biggest competition at the moment is itself.

“We just can’t lose to Clemson,” he said. “We’ve got to learn how to not lose and go win.”

Execution has been the team’s biggest issue, not effort or talent.

“We’re making it easier for the opposing team to win,” he said “All I can do is focus on the offense — going out there and playing the best football possible. I can’t control what happens on the other side of the ball, but I’ll always support those guys.”

While Clemson’s offense has faced criticism throughout the season, it was not the problem this time. The Tigers put up 560 total yards and scored their highest point total of the year in the 46-45 defeat.

Williams credited quarterback Cade Klubnik, who returned from an ankle injury and threw for 385 yards and two touchdowns, for his toughness and leadership.

“I saw a guy battling out there for his team,” Williams said. “He’s the best player we’ve got. He put the team on his back no matter how he was feeling and played gritty. I respect the hell out of him for that.”

Even after the loss, Williams emphasized keeping perspective and maintaining pride in their effort.

“There’s not one day we come in and let our record dictate how we practice or our enthusiasm,” he said. “A lot of it doesn’t make sense, but it’s not up to us for it to make sense — it’s not our plan. We just have to keep attacking each day.”

Williams also echoed head coach Dabo Swinney’s message that the Tigers shouldn’t have left the outcome in the hands of officiating.

“Refs make bad calls too,” he said. “We can’t have that dictate the game.”

Even in defeat, Williams embodied what it means to be a Tiger—heart, grit, and an unwavering commitment to his teammates and the game he loves.