The Buildup
In a heart-pounding clash of college football titans, #4 Florida State Seminoles secured a dramatic overtime victory against the Clemson Tigers on September 23rd, 2023. The game was a rollercoaster of emotions and showcased the resilience and determination of both teams, leaving fans on the edge of their seats until the final moments. The anticipation for this matchup had been building for weeks. The Florida State Seminoles, led by head coach Mike Norvell, came into the game with high expectations after a strong start to the season, while the Clemson Tigers, coached by Dabo Swinney, were looking to bounce back from a previous defeat.
The Game
From the opening kickoff, it was evident that this game would be a fierce battle. Both teams showcased their defensive prowess, preventing any touchdowns in the first quarter. The tension in the stadium was palpable as fans from both sides cheered on their teams. Clemson managed to break the deadlock late in the first quarter with a field goal, taking a 3-0 lead. However, the pace of play would pick up in the second quarter. 11:33 to go in the second quarter Clemson would go on a 7 play 51 yard drive ending with Cade Klubnik scoring on a 1 yard run for a touchdown. Florida State finally found the endzone on a 13 play 75 yard drive with Jordan Travis connecting with reciver Keon Coleman for 4 7 yard touchdown pass. Clemson 10 Florida State 7 with 5:10 to go in the second quarter. Clemson next drive went 7 plays 71 yards ending with a pass from Klubnik to running back Will Shipley for a 10 yard touchdown. Clemson 17 Florida State 7 with 2:12 to go in the second quarter. Finally drive of the first half belonged to Florida State, when they responded quickly with a touchdown before the halftime whistle. Florida State went 5 plays 75 yards for a touchdown. Jordan Travis completed a pass of 38 yards to Keon Coleman for the big play of the drive, Travis finished the drive with a two yard touchdown run. Clemson 17 Florida State 14 at the half. The third quarter saw Florida State roaring back to life on the opening drive with a field goal of their own, making the score 17-17 with 12:00 to go in the 3rd quarter. The back-and-forth nature of the game continued, with 8:18 to go in the third quarter Clemson scored again with Will Shipley going for a 1 yard run for the touchdown. Clemson 24 Florida State 17 with 3:32 to go in the third quarter.
The Turning Point
Late in the third quarter, with Clemson getting the ball back after a Florida State punt. Clemson’s drive doesn’t end well when Cade Klubnik lineups in the shotgun formation, snaps the ball looking for a target. Then gets hit by Kalen DeLoach forcing the fumble, DeLoach then scoops up the ball and goes 56 yards for the touchdown. Clemson 24 Florida State 24 to end the third quarter all tied heading to the fourth and final quarter of the game. Both teams would trade punts on four straight possesions. As the clock ticked down, it seemed that Clemson would have a chance to win the game with one last chance to pull off a miracle. Quarterback Cade Klubnik orchestrated a brilliant drive, moving the Tigers into field goal range. The tension was unbearable as the Clemson kicker lined up for the potential game-winner. The kick was no good when Jonathan Weitz missed from 29 yards, giving Florida State one last chance for a win. Florida State would go 8 plays for 41 yards, they got to the Clemson 39 yard line with the drive failing on a fourth down attempt. Clemson 24 Florida State 24 end of 4th quarter.
Overtime Drama
But the drama didn’t end there. In overtime, both teams had an opportunity to score from the opponent’s 25-yard line. Florida State had the first possession and managed to score a touchdown two plays later. Jordan Travis completed a 24 yard pass to Keon Coleman to give Florida State there only lead of the game 31-24. It all came down to Clemson’s next possession. In a heart-stopping moment, the Tigers Will Shipley pushed forward, for a nine yard run on second down. On 3rd down Cade Klubnik completed a pass for no gain, setting up a 4th and 1 from the 16 yard line. Cade Kulbnik’s pass would miss the target making it incomplete and securing the victory. The Florida State fans erupted in celebration, and the Seminoles had pulled off a thrilling 31-24 overtime win.
Post-Game Reactions
Coach Mike Norvell praised his team’s resilience and determination, saying, “This was a hard-fought game, and I couldn’t be prouder of our players. They showed great character and composure in a high-pressure situation.” Quarterback Jordan Travis, the hero of the day, added, “I couldn’t have done it without my teammates. We knew we had to dig deep and find a way to win, and that’s exactly what we did.” The Florida State Seminoles’ overtime victory over the Clemson Tigers on September 23rd, 2023, will go down in college football history as a classic showdown of determination and grit. Both teams displayed exceptional skill and sportsmanship throughout the game, making it a memorable contest for fans and players alike. This thrilling win for Florida State will undoubtedly be a source of pride for their fans and a testament to the enduring spirit of college football.
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