By : Harry Garnett
(Photo/Harry Garnett- The Mojo Network)
Furman walked into Clemson’s Memorial Stadium on Saturday with nothing to lose and a chance to test the Tigers but Clemson came out firing, and the Paladins couldn’t keep up. By the night’s end, Clemson had secured a 45-10 win over Furman in dominant fashion.
Clemson, now 6-5 on the season, struck early and often. The Tigers jumped out to a 31–0 lead by the late stages of the second quarter, capitalizing on big plays and turnovers to seize complete control. Furman managed to get on the board just before halftime with a 49-yard field goal, but that momentum never really carried through.
Quarterback Cade Klubnik connected twice in the first half with Antonio Williams for touchdowns, helping Clemson build the early cushion. Wide receiver Williams also made an impact in the return game, setting up scoring opportunities with a 30-yard punt return.
Furman’s offense finally struck for a touchdown in the third quarter quarterback Trey Hedden hit Evan James for a 19-yard score but that drive was more of a blip than a turning point.
In the fourth quarter, Clemson leaned on its depth. Freshman QB Chris Denson came in and made plays, rushing for 69 yards on one drive and finishing with 106 yards on six carries, plus a rushing touchdown. He also hit freshman tight end Logan Brooking for a 4-yard touchdown.
Defensively, Clemson forced two turnovers and pitched enough stops to keep Furman from ever threatening the rhythm of the game.
Furman finished its season at 6–6, while Clemson’s win clinched bowl eligibility and extended their streak of postseason appearances to 21 a mark few programs can match.
It wasn’t a flashy upset, but it was exactly the response Clemson needed leaving no doubt they closed strong, and sending Furman home with a few lessons from a tough road trip.