Upset Alert: Dukes 1st Win Against Clemson Since 2004

Durham, NC- A significant upset unfolded at Wallace Wade Stadium. Duke, which boasted a 9-4 record from the previous year, triumphed over Clemson, a team that had finished the previous season with an 11-3 record. This thrilling encounter occurred on Labor Day, specifically on September 4th, with the final score being 28-7  It marked a historic moment for the Blue Devils, as it was their first victory against a top-10 team in the AP rankings since 1989. The game, which kicked off at 8 pm, showcased the beginning of Duke’s second season under the leadership of Coach Elko, delivering a memorable performance.

 

As the first quarter started, Duke’s defense effectively contained Clemson’s offense. However, Duke found themselves trailing 7-6 at halftime due to a couple of costly mistakes. Notably, Jalon Calhoun’s fumbled punt gave Clemson possession at Duke’s 18-yard line, resulting in Will Shipley’s 2-yard touchdown reception for the Tigers’ sole score. 

In  moments of the first half, Duke executed an efficient two-minute drive, advancing to the Clemson 26 with just 17 seconds left. Unfortunately, Jaquez Moore fumbled on a short run while trying to position the ball for a field goal attempt. Clemson recovered, preserving their one-point lead into halftime.

 

Throughout the initial two quarters of the game, Duke outgained Clemson, amassing 185 yards compared to the Tigers’ 167. Clemson’s quarterback, Cade Klubnik, completed 14 of 20 passes for a mere 85 yards, while Duke’s Riley Leonard completed 12 of 24 passes for 146 yards.

 

Duke’s defense particulary stood out against Clemson, limiting the Tigers to just one touchdown and recovering two fumbles, both crucial inside the Duke 10-yard line to thwart Clemson’s red-zone scoring opportunities. The Blue Devils showcased a resolute defensive secondary, bolstered by graduate transfers Myles Jones, Jeremiah Lewis, and Al Blades, which held Clemson to a mere 7.7 yards per completion. Klubnik, Clemson’s quarterback, completed 27 of 43 passes for 209 yards, with his only touchdown pass being a 2-yard throw to Will Shipley.

 

Despite an impressive sophomore season the previous year, Duke’s junior quarterback, Riley Leonard, hailing from Fairhope, Alabama, often remained in the shadows of fellow ACC quarterbacks like Drake Maye of North Carolina, Jordan Travis of Florida State, and, until this Monday night, Klubnik himself. However, in the national spotlight of the Clemson game, Leonard delivered a turnover-free performance and shifted the momentum with his remarkable 44-yard touchdown run in the third quarter.

 

In the second half, Duke dominated, outscoring Clemson 22-0, with touchdowns from Leonard, Jaquez Moore (9 yards), and Jordan Waters (36 yards). Clemson’s struggles were exacerbated by missed field goals and fumbles inside the Duke 10-yard line. This marked a significant improvement for Duke’s defense, which had allowed an average of 22.1 points per game the previous season.

 

Clemson’s downfall primarily stemmed from their inability to protect the ball and their fumbling issues near the goal line. Despite amassing 422 yards, they struggled to find the end zone, failing to score on three possessions within the Duke 10-yard line, including two first-and-goal situations from the Duke 1-yard line.

 

In summary, the Blue Devils showcased their determination this season by defeating the preseason ACC favorite, making Clemson look rather ordinary in the process. This victory holds immense significance for Duke and sets an exciting tone for their upcoming season, particularly during Week 1 of football. As for Clemson, their offense appears to require improvement.

 Duke fans can anticipate their next game against Lafayette on September 9th, scheduled for 5:00 PM back at Wallace Wade Stadium.