Clemson had looked outstanding in two straight games against respectable programs having down seasons – Appalachian State and NC State. While Stanford isn’t a huge jump in competition, their homecoming visit to Clemson represented a significant level up in defensive toughness and perhaps overall physicality. Stanford entered with one of the country's best run defenses, which would further test Clemson’s emerging offense.
As Clemson did in their last two wins, the Tigers jumped on Stanford early. The Tigers recovered in plus territory after an excellent forced fumble by Wade Woodaz. Three plays later, a sea of green opened in front of QB Cade Klubnik and he sprinted 34 yards for a touchdown.