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Cade Klubnik wobbly, but strong enough against Stanford

CLEMSON – No. 15 Clemson football dominated Stanford, winning 40-14 on Saturday at Memorial Stadium.

The Tigers’ offense came back down to earth after failing to set records in the first half. Still, the unit performed well enough to outscore the Cardinals, outscoring them 23-7 in the second half. Defensively, Clemson (3-1, 2-0 ACC) held Stanford (2-2, 1-1) without defensive lineman Peter Woods at bay, recording three turnovers and four sacks but allowing the most rushing yards this season.

Here are three overreactions to Clemson’s second conference win of the season:

Clemson football’s Cade Klubnik resembles his old self in the game against Stanford

After outstanding performances in the last two games, Clade Klubnik’s play declined. He completed 15 of 31 passes for 255 yards and five total touchdowns (one rushing). His contest percentage (48%) was his lowest in a game as a starter.

Klubik’s deep ball missed, undermining freshman wide receivers TJ Moore and Bryant Wesco Jr. multiple times. He faced pressure generated by Stanford’s front and his receivers dropped routine passes that gave the Tigers four punts. Still, he was supported by a defense that helped him finish the second half strong.

For Clemson to reach and win the ACC Championship, Klubnik will need to be more consistent throughout a game.

MORE: Clemson vs Stanford score today: Live updates, highlights from Week 5 game in ACC

Clemson Football’s defense is at its best in the first half

The Tigers entered Saturday’s game as the ACC’s best first-half defense, allowing 8.7 points. They continued that trend against Stanford by forcing two interceptions in the first quarter and keeping the game scoreless until the final drive of the half. TJ Parker recorded a sack and Wade Woodaz also forced a fumble.

Clemson held the Cardinal to 62 passing yards but gave up 168 in the first half (more on that later). They have now allowed 8.3 points in the first two quarters, which was crucial for the early lead in the last three games.

Clemson football’s rush defense has become a glaring problem

Through three games, the Tigers have given up 165.7 rushing yards, the third-most in the conference beginning Saturday. These problems continued as Stanford shredded Clemson’s defense, giving up 236 rushing yards. The Tigers allowed over 140 rushing yards for the fourth straight game.

Even if Woods is out, he needs to do a better job of stopping the run. Its defensive line has the most depth on the team, but it hasn’t produced results against the run.

Derrian Carter covers Clemson athletics for The Greenville News and the USA TODAY Network. Email him at [email protected] and follow him on X, formerly known as Twitter, @DerrianCarter00

By Jasper

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