entering a conference matchup on homecoming, the #3 Clemson Tigers (7-0) didn’t expect a hard fought fight from the North Carolina State Wolfpack.
That is exactly what they got.
A game-winning interception by Tigers cornerback Marcus Edmond sealed a 24-17 overtime win for Clemson as they keep their undefeated season going with a huge road game next week against the #14 Florida State Seminoles.
This week, North Carolina State (4-2) had plans on spoiling the Tigers homecoming and they did just that for 59 minutes and 58 seconds. The game entered overtime as the Wolfpack missed a potential game-winning field goal by kicker Kyle Bambard as the final two seconds of the game ticked away. This was after North Carolina State executed a 14-play, 55-yard drive, chewing up the last 6:39 remaining in the game. The missed field goal sent the Clemson crowd in a frenzy and Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney to his knees as he rejoiced.
The Tigers themselves allowed a game such as this to occur by having four turnovers on offense, including have three straight turnovers on their first three drives after halftime. The very first play after halftime, Clemson quarterback Deshaun Watson was intercepted, which was returned by Wolfpack cornerback Mike Stevens for 28 yards and a touchdown. The play tied the game at 10 just nine seconds into the second half.
Watson tossed for 372 yards, two touchdowns, one interception and rushed for 35 yards and another score. The production by the junior quarterback was gravely important for the Clemson offense as they totaled 495 yards, their sixth straight game of over 400 offensive yards.  His second touchdown pass of the day connected with receiver Artavis Scott  (4 catches, 23 yards, TD) for 10 yards to give the Tigers a 24-17 lead in overtime. Outside of Watson, the Tigers received huge contributions by wide receiver Mike Williams to pitched in 12 catches for 146 yards and a touchdown.
North Carolina State’s offense poured in 397 total yards on a stout Clemson defense that was ninth in total defense coming into the game.
Both teams hurt themselves at times during the game and hindered themselves from having a grasp of the game. Clemson’s four turnovers hurt while NC State committed 13 penalties for 120 yards along with two missed field goals. The second miss proving to be the most costly.
