CLEMSON, S.C. -- The Homecoming crowd at Memorial Stadium stood on its feet and screamed with each play, but they knew what was coming. Between snaps, they hid their eyes, chewed on nails and watched in horror as NC State's slow march to the inevitable trudged downfield, 55 yards on 14 plays, draining nearly 7 minutes off the clock and the playoff hopes from Death Valley.
They watched, stunned, as a measurement showed NC State had picked up a first down by the length of the football.
They stood, helpless, as the Wolfpack lined up for the game-winning kick -- a virtual pooch from 33 yards out.