Tigers Drop Back-And-Forth Game to Duke, 46-45

Tigers Drop Close Game to Duke, 46-45

Clemson (3-5, 2-4 ACC) gained 560 yards of total offense but surrendered a touchdown and two-point conversion with 40 seconds remaining, resulting in a narrow 46-45 loss to Duke (5-3, 4-1 ACC) at Memorial Stadium on Saturday.

The Tigers held a seven-point lead following a 75-yard catch-and-run touchdown by T.J. Clemson forced a punt on Duke’s next drive but eventually punted back with 5:19 left, leaving Duke on its own six-yard line.

Duke then orchestrated a 94-yard drive over 11 plays in 4:39, converting two critical fourth downs and completing a two-point conversion to seize the lead. Clemson’s final drive to win the game fell short, securing Duke’s victory.

Key Offensive Performances

Defensive Highlights

Duke’s Early Success

Duke took an early 7-0 lead on its first possession after quarterback Darien Mensah threw a 19-yard touchdown pass to Que’Sean Brown with 10:08 remaining in the first quarter.

“The Blue Devils drove 94 yards on 11 plays over the next 4:39, including two critical fourth-down conversions and a two-point conversion, to take the lead.”

Author’s summary: Clemson's strong offensive effort fell just short as Duke’s late-game drive, marked by critical fourth-down plays, secured a thrilling 46-45 victory.

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Clemson University Athletics Clemson University Athletics — 2025-11-02

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