Clemson Tops Furman 45-10, Clinches Bowl Eligibility Despite Injuries

Clemson, South Carolina -- The Clemson Tigers secured their 27th consecutive bowl-eligible season with a 45-10 victory over the Furman Paladins on Saturday at Memorial Stadium, though the win came at the cost of injuries to two starting players ahead of next week's crucial in-state rivalry matchup against South Carolina.

The Tigers, who entered the game with a 4-5 record after a disappointing 3-5 start, improved to 5-5 overall and 3-5 in the Atlantic Coast Conference. The lopsided outcome against the Football Championship Subdivision opponent provided a much-needed morale boost and rest for reserves, but coach Dabo Swinney expressed concern over the health setbacks. Starting tight end Olsen Patt-Henry left in the first quarter after a 12-yard catch on fourth-and-7, landing awkwardly on his right foot and not returning. Defensive end Jahiem Lawson, who had been playing despite the backups being in, was helped off in the third quarter with a leg injury and later seen on crutches.

Quarterback Cade Klubnik directed four scoring drives before exiting early in the second quarter, accounting for three touchdowns and a field goal. He connected with receiver Antonio Williams for scores...