Overview

• Clemson led 35-3 at halftime after a 75-yard trick-play touchdown on the first snap and four first-half TD passes from Cade Klubnik, who went 21-of-23 for 251 yards.
• Thousands left Kenan Stadium before halftime as the Tigers averaged 15.8 yards per play in a 28-point opening quarter.
• North Carolina dropped to 2-3 (0-1 ACC) with three lopsided losses to Power Four opponents and just four touchdowns on 29 drives against power teams, according to the AP.
• Max Johnson started at quarterback for injured transfer Gio Lopez and threw for 213 yards as UNC went 2-for-11 on third down.
• The defeat drew renewed criticism of UNC’s overhaul of roughly 70 newcomers, with national commentators questioning the roster’s talent level; the Tar Heels have a bye before visiting Cal on Oct. 17.