There have been many memorable moments throughout the history of Clemson Football.
Pro Football Focus recently took fans on a trip down memory lane by asking a question that many Clemson fans could answer in a multitude of ways.
For many, the first thing they would think of was the 2016 National title game when Deshaun Watson rolled out to his right and found Hunter Refrow in the end zone for the winning touchdown over the Alabama Crimson Tide.
There are so many others that could be used but that is the most notable. Well, in recent history anyways.
Another would have to be when the Tigers dismantled Alabama just a couple seasons later in the 2018 National title game. No one expected them to win in such dominating fashion.
Then there is “the catch” by Jerry Butler. This play came against South Carolina in 1977 and was the game winner. It was a leaping, twisting catch that many still feel that Butler was the only player on the field that day capable of making that play.
There is also the play known to Tiger fans as “The Catch II”. The play came during the 2000 rivalry game in front of a packed house in Death Valley. Clemson was trailing the Gamecocks 14-13 with 19 seconds left when Tiger quarterback Woodrow Dantzler threw up a 50-yard prayer that Rod Gardner hauled in as he was falling backward and landing at the Gamecocks’ 8-yard line.
South Carolina fans and Clemson fans still debate this play to this day and while there was some contact between Gardner and South Carolina defensive back Andre Goodman, no flag was thrown. The play set up Aaron Hunt for a 25-yard game-winning field goal, and helped the Tigers knock off South Carolina 16-14.
Then there is the infamous 4th and 16 catch by DeAndre “Nuk” Hopkins against LSU in the 2012 Chick-Fil-A bowl. Clemson got the ball at its own 20 with 1:39 left in the game and down 22-21.
During the drive the Tigers found themselves in a hole facing a 4th and 16 when quarterback Tajh Boyd worked his magic and hit Hopkins for a 26-yard strike on the play. This got the drive rolling before eventually setting up Chandler Catanzaro’s game-winning field goal.
These are just a few moments that come to mind but surely there are many others that Clemson fans would hold near and dear to their hearts.
Love seeing your articles!! Keep them coming! One of my twin daughters was also recently diagnosed as a type one, but like you, she is a little fighter! Thanks for all you do for Clemson!