UNC Can’t Overcome Turnovers, Falls to Clemson

What a frustrating night for UNC.

North Carolina went to Death Valley hoping to avenge last year’s ACC championship loss. After a frustrating first quarter where the Tar Heels should’ve been up 17-0 at minimum, it was only 7-0. In the second quarter, a ref-aided drive saw Clemson score a touchdown just three seconds before halftime.

What Was That First Half?

North Carolina got up 7-0 on an NFL throw by Drake Maye to J.J. Jones. After that, the Tar Heels fumbled on the 4-yard line and then again on the one-yard line. They turned the ball over on downs near midfield twice; however, the defense actually held up well. What should’ve been a 7-7 game at halftime was a 14-7 Clemson lead. The second touchdown drive by the Tigers threw a pick in the end zone, which was called back by a “roughing the passer” which was simply just football. Then, on third and goal, Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik ran to the one-yard line, was clearly short on video, but that did not matter as they were given a touchdown. That play gave Clemson the lead heading into halftime.

Second Half Woes

There was not much going for the Heels after halftime. An Omarion Hampton 55-yard touchdown gave UNC life but was quickly answered by Clemson. North Carolina would score one more time but ultimately fell due to turnovers, mental mistakes, and poor officiating.

Final: Clemson-31 North Carolina-20

UNC will head to Raleigh to take on a surging NC State squad that will surely be hyped up.

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