Instant Analysis: Clemson 26, N.C. State 14

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RALEIGH, N.C.- The third ranked Clemson Tigers (3-0, 1-0) gutted out their first road win of season in defeating N.C. State 26-14 Thursday evening in Carter-Finley Stadium.

It was over when: The Clemson offense looked out of synch for the entire first half, but the defense kept the pressure on the Wolfpack. Quarterback Tajh BoydTajh Boyd
RS Sr. Quarterback
#10 6-1, 225
Hampton, VA
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Jr. Wide Receiver
#1 6-5, 200
Calhoun Falls, SC
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Game ball goes to: Bryant shook off a tough first half and caught two touchdown passes in the second half. It was the first time in Bryant’s career that he had two touchdown catches. Bryant finished the game with six catches for 73 yards. Bryant also recovered the on-side kick with less than four minutes to play.

Stat of the game: The Tigers had 170 rushing yards, despite not having any single player break the 70 yard barrier.

What it means for Clemson: Despite a less than stellar performance, the Tigers begin ACC play 1-0. Thursday’s win was in a tough environment and Clemson overcame adversity all evening. Clemson returns to the friendly confines of Death Valley for a Homecoming matchup with Wake Forest next weekend.

What it means for N.C. State: The Pack start their ACC schedule with a tough loss, but there were many rays of hope for Dave Doeren’s team- a gutsy defensive performance and Bryan Underwood is a playmaker.

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