On a day filled with emotions and pride, Clemson University celebrated both Senior Day and Military Appreciation Day, honoring the contributions of its graduating players and the brave men and women who serve in the military. The Tigers capped off the festivities with an impressive 51-14 victory over The Citadel, showcasing their dominance on both sides of the ball.
Senior Day is always a special occasion for college football programs, and for Clemson, it was a chance to recognize the careers of players who had contributed greatly to the success of the program over the years. The day was filled with tributes, as families gathered on the field to celebrate the achievements of their sons. For many of these seniors, this was their final regular season game at Death Valley, and they left the field knowing they had given everything for their team.
In addition to Senior Day, Clemson also honored veterans and active-duty military members during Military Appreciation Day. The Tigers took time to recognize the sacrifices made by those in uniform, with special ceremonies and tributes throughout the day. The presence of military personnel added a layer of significance to the game, and the Tigers played with that extra sense of purpose and pride.
On the field, Clemson made sure to put on a performance that matched the occasion. The Tigers came out firing from the start, dominating The Citadel in every phase of the game. Quarterback Cade Klubnik had an efficient day, throwing for multiple touchdowns and leading the offense with poise and precision. Running backs Will Shipley and Phil Mafah were also key contributors, each finding the end zone and running with authority behind a solid offensive line.
The defense was just as impressive, stifling The Citadel’s offensive efforts and limiting the Bulldogs to just two touchdowns. Clemson’s defensive line generated consistent pressure, while the secondary did its part to keep The Citadel’s passing game from finding any rhythm. The dominance of the Tigers’ defense was evident, as they forced turnovers and set the tone throughout the contest.
By the time the final whistle blew, Clemson had built a commanding 51-14 lead, securing the win in front of a raucous home crowd. The victory not only marked a fitting send-off for the seniors but also kept the Tigers’ momentum building toward the final stretch of the season. With this win, Clemson demonstrated that they are ready for the challenges that lie ahead, keeping their eyes on a strong finish as they enter postseason play.
