CFBSep 26
Clemson’s ground game and defense deliver toughness Swinney wanted
Gideon Davidson powered a 24-10 victory at California as the Tigers built momentum for a conference test against No. 6 Miami.
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Davidson sets the tone
Clemson gave coach Dabo Swinney evidence of the physical edge he had been seeking, leaning on its rushing attack and defense to beat California 24-10 on Friday night in Berkeley. The Tigers piled up 255 rushing yards, led by Gideon Davidson’s 159 yards and a pair of touchdowns on 22 carries. His 75-yard scoring run late in the game sealed the result and completed another 100-yard performance. That production helped Clemson overcome an uneven outing from freshman quarterback Tait Reynolds. He connected on 13 of 21 attempts for 108 yards, threw an interception and lost a fumble. For Swinney, the ability to impose the running game was an encouraging sign after entering the season with questions about his team’s toughness.
Defense delivers before Miami test
Clemson kept Cal’s offense out of the end zone and allowed just 231 total yards, including 145 through the air and 86 on the ground. Bears quarterback Jaron-Keawe Sagapolutele struggled against a defense that conceded only three points. Cal’s offensive issues remain unresolved under new coordinator Jordan Somerville. The Bears have managed five offensive touchdowns across three games against FBS opposition. Coach Tosh Lupoi maintained confidence in Somerville while emphasizing the need to review failed plays and find ways to better position their players for success. Clemson now turns toward a home matchup with No. 6 Miami. Both teams remain unbeaten in conference play, giving the Tigers a chance to gauge their progress against a stronger challenge. Swinney views Miami as a potential national pacesetter and believes Clemson will need its best performance yet.
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