The Clemson Tigers defeated Stanford 40-14 to win their second ACC matchup of the season. Below are some key takeaways from the game:

Paws up: Red zone defense
Although off to an uncharacteristically slow start, the Clemson defense came up big when it mattered against the Stanford Cardinal.

The Tigers had 10 tackles for loss on Saturday and forced three turnovers. Cornerback Avieon Terrell was a major piece of the puzzle, with his performance highlighted by an end zone interception to end Stanford’s momentum. Linebacker Wade Woodaz was also a key contributor with a forced fumble and interception.

“We were at our best in the red zone,” head coach Dabo Swinney said postgame. “To see our defense make those plays, that will give them a lot of confidence.”

The Clemson defense was able to hold Stanford to seven points in the first three quarters and let up its second touchdown of the game in the fourth quarter.

Paws down: Slow run game
Clemson’s run game was slightly stunted by the Cardinal’s strong offensive line. The Tigers rushed for 150 yards — roughly 100 less than they have averaged in their last two games — led by running back Phil Mafah with 58 yards.

The Stanford defense is No. 8 in the nation for rushing yards allowed, with opponents averaging 3.02 yards per carry. Mafah managed 5.8 yards on each touch, but Clemson adjusted to the slow run game fairly quickly and exploited the Stanford defense with strong receivers all night.

“They weren’t giving up much. Just a gritty game,” Swinney said.

Paws up: Connections with receivers

Quarterback Cade Klubnik connected with seven different receivers Saturday night for a total of 255 yards in the air. His diverse array of options was highlighted by Antonio Williams, who managed four completions for 37 yards, as well as a 43-yard touchdown pass to Cole Turner.

Freshman standout Bryant Wesco Jr. showed his strength with 104 receiving yards, including a 70-yard catch that resulted in a field goal for the Tigers.