Clemson Football: The Gator Bowl was anything but meaningless for the Tigers
Bowl season can show many things about your team’s future and how they can move forward toward the next season. For Clemson, in their thrilling 38-35 win over Kentucky, no trait showed through more than togetherness.
The perseverance that was displayed by this Clemson team is a testament to their fight from game one through game 13. Being down double digits in the second half and crawling their way back into their game to win the bowl game is what makes this second half of the season so intriguing for next year’s team. Cade Klubnik did not have the best game of his career, but the game's last drive was something that Clemson fans will remember for the next couple of years. Super-senior DE Xavier Thomas, who fought through multiple injuries and decided to play his final game in the Tiger uniform, came up with a huge sack and forced fumble.
Cade Klubnik celebrates Clemson's game-winning touchdown in the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl.
With some transfers and opt-outs before the Gator Bowl, there were opportunities on deck for players to step in and show out. Two names that rose to the occasion are Wade Woodaz and Shelton Lewis. The performances they had on Friday showed that they're ready to lead next season. Lewis replaced NFL-bound Nate Wiggins and had multiple great plays on the ball and the game-sealing interception. Woodaz was everywhere in the run game for the Tigers, neutralizing the rushing attack from Ray Davis and Co. Freshman defensive back Khalil Barnes did what he does best, making game-changing plays to get the offense the ball back. LB Barrett Carter who announced his return for 2024 showed he is ready to lead this defense with a 0.5 sack, 1 fumble recovery, and a tipped pass to himself for an interception.
When the offense had a short field from the defensive efforts, they found efficient ways to get the ball to their playmakers. Jake Briningstool was a security blanket for Klubnik with 9 receptions and 91 yards showing how much of a reliable target he has been all year. Also, WRs Troy Stellato and Adam Randall had huge receptions to keep drives alive. Tyler Brown showed his versatility again today, busting a huge gain on a rush that led to one of Phil Mafah’s touchdowns and converting a 2-point conversion. When the Tigers needed something it was Mafah time and he delivered with 71 yards and 4 rushing touchdowns, a TaxSlayer Gator Bowl record.
Dabo Swinney after the Notre Dame win said, “Buy stock in Clemson right now,” After that statement, the Tigers went on and won five straight games to end their season. The stock in Clemson is rising for 2024 with a chance to make the newly expanded 12-team College Football Playoff.
