Clemson's Phil Mafah Scores Career-High in Upset Over No. 15 Notre Dame; Coach Swinney Defends Program Amid Criticism

Clemson's Phil Mafah fills in startlingly for injured Will Shipley, running for career-best 186 yards, while Swinney moves past late Frank Howard to be Clemson's winningest coach with 166 wins.

Clemson defeated No. 15 Notre Dame in an upset victory, led by Phil Mafah who filled in for injured starter Will Shipley. Mafah's outstanding performance included a career-best 186 yards and two touchdowns.
Clemson Coach Dabo Swinney becomes the school's all-time winningest coach with 166 victories, surpassing the previous record held by Frank Howard.
Swinney defended his program's performance during the season amid criticism, encouraging fans and critics alike to continue investing their faith in the team.
The win over Notre Dame is Clemson's first against a ranked team since 2021, breaking its two-game losing streak and snapping Notre Dame QB Sam Hartman's undefeated record against the Tigers.
Notre Dame's offensive performance proved lackluster with QB Sam Hartman throwing two interceptions, completing only 13 of 30 passes for 146 yards, and assuming responsibility for the team's defeat.
Despite the challenging season, Clemson's resiliency was highlighted with the defensive and special teams' efforts in the late stages of the game, preventing Notre Dame's advancement to score.