In a game featuring many mistakes in all three phases of the game, the Clemson Tigers managed to overcome sloppy play and beat the N.C. State Wolfpack 14-13 Saturday afternoon.
Clemson's miscues, which led to boos from the Tiger faithful at times, included an interception, five fumbles with two of them lost, two missed field goals, and a touchdown canceled because of a holding penalty.
The Tigers were without running back Andre Ellington, and Jamie Harper stepped up in his absence. The junior tailback rushed for 64 yards and a touchdown, and caught 4 passes for 34 yards.
Clemson quarterback Kyle Parker came back strong after being benched in the first half. He finished the game 21/29 for 214 yards, and led the Tigers in their comeback after being down 10-0.
Clemson's third quarter touchdown was its first offensive trip to the end zone since the third quarter two weeks ago against Georgia Tech, seven touchdown-less quarters ago.
The loss knocks N.C. State out of the leader's spot in the Atlantic Division. The Wolfpack will need to win out, and have FSU lose two more games.
N.C. State quarterback Russell Wilson finished 22/37 for 214 yards, with one touchdown and one interception.
The two teams did most of their damage through the air, as both teams had exactly 214 passing yards. On the ground they struggled, combining for only 109 yards.
The game ball goes to the Clemson defense, who kept the Tigers in the game while the offense was making so many mistakes.
For more on the two teams, head to Backing The Pack and Shakin The Southland.