Clemsonfootball’s season took another early hit in Atlanta as Georgia Tech stunned the 12th-ranked Tigers 24-21 on Saturday night. The Yellow Jackets broke through with their first victory over Clemson since 2015, denying the Tigers a chance to avoid a 1-2 start.
The deciding moment came when Aidan Birr drilled a 55-yard field goal as time expired, setting off a celebration at Bobby Dodd Stadium. His kick capped a night in which Georgia Tech’s offense consistently found ways to extend drives and keep pressure on Clemson’s defense.
Quarterback Haynes King carried the load for the Jackets, completing 20 of 28 throws for 211 yards while also rushing for 101 yards and a score. His dual-threat ability proved crucial on the final possession, where he guided Tech into field goal range on a 10-play march.
For Clemson, Cade Klubnik’s performance was a mix of promise and frustration. He tossed a 73-yard touchdown to freshman Bryant Wesco and powered in for another score himself, finishing with 207 yards through the air and 62 on the ground. But an early fumble and an interception limited the Tigers’ margin for error. Running back Adam Randall added a short touchdown run in the fourth quarter to briefly draw Clemson even.
GEORGIA TECH HITS THE 55-YARD FIELD GOAL AS TIME EXPIRES TO SNAP ITS NINE-GAME LOSING STREAK VS. CLEMSON‼️ pic.twitter.com/14ywZCrWW3
— ESPN (@espn) September 13, 2025
The Tigers were missing several starters, including receiver Antonio Williams, safety Khalil Barnes, left tackle Tristan Leigh and guard Elyjah Thurmon. Even so, they had opportunities to control the game in the second half before Tech delivered the final blow.
Now sitting at 1-2 overall and 0-1 in ACC play, Clemson’s margin for error is gone. The only realistic shot at a College Football Playoff berth is to win out.
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This article originally appeared on Clemson Wire: Clemson falls to Georgia Tech behind Birr’s 55-yard game-winner
