Clemson's offense finds its stride and sweeps App State

CLEMSON – After facing renewed criticism of their offense following last week's lopsided loss in Atlanta, the No. 25 Clemson Tigers turned the tables in their home opener against App State, using a powerful passing attack to earn a clear 66-20 victory over the Mountaineers at Memorial Stadium.

The Tigers improve their record to 1-1 on this young season and have a bye next week before hosting NC State on September 21.

Offensive fireworks return to Death Valley

It's been a while since Clemson fans have seen an explosion like the one they saw on offense, especially in the passing game, on Saturday night. The Tigers were explosive. They attacked the middle of the field. And, most importantly, they were consistent. Fans saw flattering football in Death Valley.

The Tigers managed more than 700 yards of offense, including 460 through the air. That was just the boost the team needed after last week's result. Clemson also managed 252 yards, including 162 in the first two quarters.

The question is, can this team do it again when it takes the field against NC State in two weeks?

Career Night

Cade Klubnik had his best game as a college quarterback and one of the best in Clemson history. The junior played only the first half and completed 24 of 26 passes for 378 yards. He also threw five touchdown passes and ran for two more, giving him a total of seven points on the night. The 56 points he led the Tigers to in the first half were the most scored in a half in program history. It was quite a turnaround from the previous week, when this offense just couldn't get out of its own way.

Klubnik was exactly what most people imagined he would be after he signed with Clemson as a 5-star prospect for the class of 2022. He made all the right decisions, there were no happy feet, and his presence in the pocket was the best it's been since he arrived on campus. He also didn't commit turnovers.

Freshman phenomena

After Bryant Wesco and TJ Moore combined for just 18 snaps in the loss to Georgia, the two were prominently featured against App State, especially Wesco, who replaced Adam Randall in the starting lineup. The freshman had the team's most receiving yards with 130 and caught a 76-yard pass from Klubnik on the Tigers' third offensive play of the game.

Moore also caught his first touchdown of his college career, a 33-yard touchdown in the second half. He finished the game with 3 catches and 44 yards.

After not playing a single defensive snap last week, Sammy Brown was used a lot this time. The rookie had nine tackles, the most on his team.

Ricardo Jones intercepted the first pass of his Clemson career early in the fourth quarter, the second turnover the Tigers had forced up to that point.

Elyjah Thurmon also stood out and more than held his own when the offensive line backups came into play. It's amazing the impact Matt Luke can have on this offensive line.

Replacement quarterback

Most reports on Chris Vizzina's return from fall camp have been very positive. Many said he has made quite a leap forward since his freshman season. Tonight, fans finally got to see him. After looking less than stellar in his first two spring games, Vizzina entered the game early in the third quarter and looked extremely solid in his first appearance of 2024.

The redshirt freshman finished the game 7 of 11 passing for 78 yards and a rushing touchdown. Vizzina also showed really good poise and presence. He also added 31 yards on the ground.

A limited number of signed footballs from Clemson's Class of 2022 are still available. Get yours while supplies last! Visit Clemson Variety & Frame or purchase online!