Quarterback DeShaun Watson threw two interceptions and Clemson’s defense was surprisingly lackluster at home as the No. 2 team in the country was locked into a shootout with Pitt in the first half, holding a slim 28-27 lead.
Watson didn’t have bad numbers other than those two turnovers (one of which came in the red zone), heading to the locker room with 321 yards and two touchdowns while spreading the ball around to seven different receivers.
The biggest play of the half might have come just before the end of the first quarter as Clemson went for it on a 4th and goal from the one yard line. Tailback Wayne Gallman dived into the end zone but fumbled the ball, which Pitt returned 99 yards for what appeared to be a two-score lead.
Replay overturned the call however, showing that Gallman did get the ball over the goal line before it hit the ground and the Tigers instead tied the game. They went up on their ensuing drive, going 80 yards down the field as Watson hit Mike Williams from 15 yards.
Pitt didn’t fold though, needing just three plays to find the end zone as tight end Scott Orndoff rumbled 55 yards for the score. Kicker Chris Blewitt well, you know, missed the extra point however to keep the Panthers a point behind but the team converted a 4th-and-goal on the next drive to take the lead.
James Conner had 96 yards rushing while quarterback Nathan Peterman tossed four first half touchdowns.
The Panthers are aiming to become bowl eligible with a win, which would undoubtedly be one of the biggest victories in Pat Narduzzi’s young tenure. Clemson, meanwhile, would clinch a spot in the ACC title game and the Atlantic division if they come out on top.