Clemson, Dabo Swinney send message to ACC with domination of North Carolina State

CLEMSON, S.C. — In its first ACC game of the season, No. 19 Clemson dominated North Carolina State 59-35 on Saturday at Memorial Stadium.

The Tigers' offense didn't miss a beat after its Week 3 open date, scoring on its first four possessions and logging 45 points in the first half. Defensively, Clemson (2-1, 1-0 ACC)) shined without defensive lineman Peter Woods, forcing three turnovers and recording two sacks to rout the Wolfpack (2-2, 0-1).

The win by the Tigers sent a message to the ACC, showcasing they are going to be one of the conference's elite teams.

Clemson outgained North Carolina State 408-164 in the first half, including outrushing them 228-29. It led 28-0 at the end of the first quarter and scored on seven of its eight drives. Quarterback Cade Klubnik was efficient and kept the explosive plays coming, completing 16 of 24 passes for 209 yards and 70 yards rushing with four total touchdowns (one rushing).

Defensively, the Tigers stifled NC State freshman quarterback CJ Bailey. They sent blitzes that generated sacks and forced three turnovers (two fumbles, one interception).

With Woods out, the Tigers needed someone to step up. They found that production with T.J. Parker, who was tied for the most sacks on the team last year.

Parker recorded five tackles, including two sacks and a forced fumble, against the Wolfpack. Clemson entered Saturday's game with only two sacks.

In the first half, the Tigers allowed 29 rushing yards and 135 passing yards. Parker led the defensive line's dominance in the trenches and must continue to do so if Woods will miss more time.

Clemson was searching for a No. 2 running back behind Phil Mafah and may have found solution with Jay Haynes. The redshirt freshman replaced Mafah, who exited with an injury in the first quarter but returned to the game, and took advantage of his opportunities.

Haynes finished with 42 rushing yards on eight carries, including a 19-yard touchdown on a delayed handoff in the second quarter. He helped in pass protection and receiving downs, too, logging two catches for 17 yards. His production was huge to showcase there is depth behind Mafah.