Clemson’s nation-leading 40-game winning streak at home was broken on Saturday by South Carolina. The Tigers were defeated 31-30 by South Carolina in a misguided performance that effectively eliminated them from the College Football Playoff competition for the second consecutive season.
This streak of home victories was a ACC record and the longest since Nebraska’s 47 consecutive wins in 1997 to 1991. Clemson’s 23-14 halftime lead is equally impressive.
ESPN Stats & Information research shows that Clemson was 60-0 at home when Dabo Swinney led by nine points or more at halftime.
South Carolina has now beaten back-toback ranked opponents. It defeated Tennessee last week and Clemson this week, its first win in the rivalry match since 2013.
Swinney stated that South Carolina won the victory “flat out.”
“Today just wasn’t our day. Swinney stated that it was their day. “That’s football. It’s important to accept the good and the bad. Although it was a disappointing day, we still won seven consecutive games. This is something you can’t forget. Since 2013, we have lost two home games to Florida State. It’s a sad day but we will get back up Monday and continue moving forward.”
The No. The No. 8 Tigers came into the game thinking they had a chance of making the playoffs, but it was not the case. This team has hardly been a contender for the playoffs all season. As South Carolina pounded him throughout the game, DJ Uiagalelei, quarterback, struggled once again. He went 8-of 29 for 99 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. Running back Will Shipley ran for 132 yards with a score, which was the only positive for Clemson’s offense.
With the game at stake, South Carolina was able to pin Clemson multiple times deep and Uiagalelei couldn’t get much going offensively.
Clemson had a last chance to win the ball late. However, Antonio Williams misplaced a punt in 2 minutes, 5 second. South Carolina won the game and recovered. Clemson managed to run 86 yards total in the second period.
Three turnovers by the Tigers allowed Spencer Rattler, South Carolina’s quarterback, to make big plays throughout the passing game. Rattler threw for 360 yard and two touchdowns, with two interceptions.
“We have had more good days than bad. Swinney stated that we are not entitled to everything going our way.
Swinney chose to stay with Uiagalelei, unlike other games in which he struggled.
Brandon Streeter, Clemson’s offensive coordinator, stated that there has never been a strong desire to change quarterbacks.
Swinney pointed out that Uiagalelei was hurt by poor field position and other errors. Three drops were suffered by the Tigers in this game, which was their second-highest total in a single game this year.
“A couple of bad decisions, some missed throws. Swinney stated that this is football. It’s great to get into a rhythm. Sometimes it can be difficult to sledding when things aren’t clicking.
Swinney was asked if there would be an open competition for quarterbacks heading into the ACC championship. He said no.
Swinney now has to find a way for his team to focus on the ACC title match against North Carolina on Saturday. This is the first time in 2012 that both teams have entered the championship game without a loss. It adds some excitement to this matchup.
Clemson didn’t win the ACC title last year so the Tigers have a chance to win one. Although he has always defended Uiagalelei, there will be valid questions about his quarterback situation going forward.
“We’re 10-2. We are not 2-10. Swinney stated that it’s a difficult day and a very painful day. We all know how important this game really is. However, it’s our duty to help them get through it, pick them up and give them some energy. It’s always about the next. Many people think their season is over, but we have a championship game and an opportunity to win the ACC. That’s been our goal since day one.
