By : Sabri Haidar
(Photo/Sabri Haidar-The Mojo Network)
The Clemson Tigers dominated Stanford with a commanding effort, winning 40–14 on the road. From the beginning to the end, Clemson's well-rounded offensive and oppressive defense left Stanford with little options.
The Tigers (now 3–1) got out to a fast start and didn't look back. Their first drive was a dismal one, but quarterback Cade Klubnik changed the tone with a well-executed series of plays that culminated in a 6-yard touchdown pass to Beaux Collins. Klubnik showed poise and variety under center as he finished the game 18 of 25 for 227 yards and two touchdowns, adding another score on the run.
Clemson's defensive ferocity mirrored their offensive efficiency. Ashton Daniels, the quarterback for Stanford, was under constant pressure from the Tigers' defense all night long. Four sacks were recorded by Clemson, two of which came from the team's standout linebacker, Barrett Carter. Carter was all over the field. Jeadyn Lukus, a cornerback, made an interception in the third quarter that ended any chance of a Stanford comeback, which was another contribution from the secondary.
The Tigers' run game was equally effective on the ground. Will Shipley outran Stanford's defense for 97 yards on 13 carries, including a touchdown. Stanford's defense was always on the defensive end of things because to his physicality and open-space vision.
Stanford, on the other hand, struggled to find any rhythm. Their offense managed just two touchdowns, both in the second half when the game was already out of reach. Daniels threw for 198 yards and a score but was harassed throughout by Clemson’s relentless pass rush. The Cardinal (1-3) were held to just 81 rushing yards on the night, an indication of Clemson’s dominance in the trenches.
Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney praised his team’s all-around performance, calling it “one of our most complete games of the season.” He added, “Our defense was lights out, and the offense executed exactly how we wanted them to. We played fast and physical.”
The win serves as a statement for the Tigers as they continue their push for a spot in the College Football Playoff. After a close loss earlier in the season, Clemson appears to be hitting its stride at the right time.
For Stanford, the loss extends a frustrating start to the season. Head coach Troy Taylor acknowledged the gap in execution, saying, “We need to be better in all phases. We’re going to learn from this and keep pushing forward.”
As Clemson moves forward, this victory will surely build their confidence for the challenging stretch ahead. With Klubnik leading the charge and a defense firing on all cylinders, the Tigers look poised to be a formidable force as the season progresses.