Clemson stunned in season opener by Duke

Clemson players hold up their helmets before the NCAA college football playoff championship...
Clemson players hold up their helmets before the NCAA college football playoff championship game against Alabama Monday, Jan. 9, 2017, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O'Meara) (Chris O'Meara | AP)
Published: Sep. 4, 2023 at 7:14 PM EDT

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) - Ninth ranked Clemson was favored by almost two touchdowns to beat Duke in the season opener for both teams. Instead the Blue Devils surprised the Tigers winning by 21 points Monday night on their home field.

Duke was led by quarterback Riley Leonard. He was 17 of 33 passing for 175 yards, no touchdowns and no interceptions. Leonard hurt the Tigers with his legs, rushing for 98 yards on eight carries. His 44 yard touchdown run on the opening possession of the third quarter put the Blue Devils ahead to stay at 13 to 7.

Duke added two fourth quarter touchdowns to make the final 28-to-7. Clemson will look to rebound Saturday when they host Charleston Southern at 2:15 PM.

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