Snap judgments as Florida State outlasts Clemson in OT

Florida State finally ended its losing streak to Clemson on Saturday, outlasting the Tigers 31-24 in overtime to earn its first win over Clemson since 2014.

Keon Coleman caught a 24-yard touchdown pass on Florida State’s overtime possession, before the Tigers turned the ball over on downs on their possession. Clemson faced third-and-1 from the Florida State 16 in OT and attempted back-to-back passes — the second of which fell incomplete — to end the game.

With the win, Florida State improves to 4-0 (2-0), while Clemson falls to 2-2 (0-2) with the loss. The Tigers are 0-2 in the ACC to start the season for the first time since 2010. Here are some quick takeaways from the game:

Florida State experience showed

The Seminoles were down 10 points in the first half and trailed by seven late in the third quarter with Clemson driving. However, they never panicked and made the big plays when it mattered most. Arguably the biggest play of the game was a scoop-and-score by linebacker Kalen DeLoach late in the third quarter. DeLoach stripped Tigers quarterback Cade Klubnik, picked up the fumble and returned it 56 yards for a score.

Clemson’s inexperience also showed at times, including when Klubnik threw a pass on what was an RPO on third-and-1 in overtime.

Cade Klubnik has a bright future

Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik wasn’t perfect, but he was tough as nails against Florida State. The sophomore hung in the pocket and took big hit after big hit to give the Tigers a chance. Klubnik was making only the fifth start of his career and is clearly getting better and better. He finished the game 25 of 38 passing for 283 yards, with one touchdown. He also rushed for a score.

It’s not a surprise that Klubnik is still experiencing growing pains as a young quarterback playing a talented defense, but he’s also showing some growth, too.

Tigers front seven came to play

Florida State has had an excellent running game the past couple of seasons, but the Tigers completely shut down the Seminoles rushing attack on Saturday. FSU finished with only 22 rushing yards, averaging 1.1 yards per attempt. Xavier Thomas and the rest of the Clemson defensive line played well.

Clemson in a tough spot

With the loss, Clemson is now 0-2 in the ACC with several tough games remaining. The Tigers have to play at Syracuse against a team that has given them fits next week. Swinney’s club also has tough games remaining against Miami, North Carolina and Notre Dame. It’s going to be a challenge for Clemson to get back on track and potentially reach the ACC Championship game this year.