Clemson vs. Appalachian State: Tigers Dominate the Mountaineers 66-20

Following a tough loss, Clemson fans voiced frustration, calling for the head coach’s removal. But the Tigers responded emphatically in their home opener against Appalachian State at Death Valley, delivering a commanding 66-20 victory.

Clemson received the ball first, and despite some initial resistance from Appalachian State’s defense, Cade Klubnik found Bryant Wesco Jr. for a 76-yard touchdown on third down, giving the Tigers an early 7-0 lead just over a minute into the game. The Mountaineers’ offense initially moved the ball but was forced to punt after Clemson’s defense tightened up.

On Clemson’s next drive, Klubnik made smart decisions, moving the offense near midfield. He connected with Wesco again, this time for a 52-yard gain down to the 2-yard line. Klubnik finished the drive with a fake to Phil Mafah and a rushing touchdown, extending the lead to 14-0 just 9:40 into the 1st quarter. Clemson’s defense continued to shine, with the secondary making crucial stops to force another punt.

The Tigers quickly capitalized, with Mafah breaking free for an 83-yard touchdown on 3rd & 1, pushing the score to 21-0. Although Appalachian State managed some movement on their next possession, Clemson’s defense clamped down again, forcing yet another punt.

Clemson’s offensive onslaught continued with a 41-yard touchdown pass to tight end Jake Briningstool, making it 28-0 late in the 1st quarter. After another poor punt from the Mountaineers, the Tigers struck again in just two plays, pushing the lead to 35-0 with a minute remaining in the first quarter.

Appalachian State struggled to respond, and a solid punt return by Antonio Williams set Clemson up at the Mountaineer 30-yard line. Five plays later, Klubnik ran it in from 3 yards out, giving the Tigers a staggering 42-0 lead early in the 2nd quarter.

App State, desperate to find some momentum, resorted to trick plays, finally moving into Clemson territory. A couple of penalties helped them reach the 3-yard line, and they scored their first touchdown at 10:39, cutting the lead to 42-7.

Clemson answered quickly, with solid blocking from the offensive line allowing Mafah to move the ball deep into Mountaineer territory. Klubnik then connected with T.J. Moore for another touchdown, giving Clemson a 49-6 lead and setting a record for the most points scored in a half. Appalachian State managed a 36-yard field goal following a fumble recovery, narrowing the score to 49-10.

Even with their large lead, Clemson remained aggressive, marching down the field with quick passes. Klubnik hit Briningstool for another touchdown, increasing the lead to 56-10 just before halftime. The Mountaineers added a last-second field goal, going into the break trailing 56-13.

Clemson’s dominant first half not only erased memories of the previous week’s loss but also sent a strong message about their offensive and defensive capabilities as they cruised to a decisive victory over Appalachian State.