Clemson Tigers Dominate Appalachian State Mountaineers in a High-Scoring Affair at Memorial Stadium
In a Week 2 collegiate football showdown that saw the Clemson Tigers pitted against the Appalachian State Mountaineers, it was Clemson who emerged victorious with a decisive 66-20 win. This victory at Memorial Stadium in Clemson, South Carolina, before an impressive crowd of 81,500 fans, brought the Tigers' season record to an even 1-1. Conversely, Appalachian State found themselves on the back foot with a 1-2 record.
From the beginning of the match, Clemson's offense proved to be an insurmountable force, amassing a staggering total of 712 yards. Quarterback Cade Klubnik was at the forefront of this offensive juggernaut, completing an astonishing 92 percent of his passes for a total of 378 yards and contributing five touchdowns without succumbing to any interceptions. Phil Mafah bolstered this offensive onslaught on the ground by rushing for 118 yards across ten attempts and scoring once – his highlight being an electrifying run that spanned 83 yards into the end zone.
The receiving team also made significant contributions to Clemson's victory. Jake Briningstool reeled in seven passes for a solid century in yards and two touchdowns while Bryant Wesco Jr. added depth to their aerial attack with three catches totaling an impressive 130 yards and one touchdown from a play that covered seventy-six yards.
Clemson's defense was equally formidable; they managed to contain Appalachian State's scoring efforts to just twenty points throughout the game. The defensive line saw Stephiylan Green achieving one sack along with two tackles for loss and applying pressure on Appalachian State’s quarterback with one hit. Ricardo Jones stood out in pass defense by intercepting one throw and breaking up another.
The special teams unit contributed flawlessly to Clemson’s performance as well; Nolan Hauser executed all nine extra-point opportunities perfectly besides successfully converting his sole field goal attempt from thirty-six yards away.
Looking forward, Clemson is set to welcome North Carolina State Wolfpack at Memorial Stadium on September 21st for a noon EDT kickoff. Fans are gearing up for what is expected to be another captivating matchup as part of their regular season journey.