At Clemson there has been “The Catch” – Jerry Butler’s twisting, leaping catch to beat rival South Carolina in 1977. Then there is “The Catch II” – Rod Gardner’s 50-yard reception in the final seconds of the 2000 South Carolina game to set up Aaron Hunts’ game-winning field goal.
Those two plays were considered two of the more significant moments in Clemson football history. However, on January 9, the final drive in the College Football Playoff National Championship Game pushed both of those to the side.
With 2:07 left on the clock, following Jalen Hurts’ 30-yard scamper to give Alabama a three-point lead, the Tigers drove 68 yards in the final two minutes.