Top Bench Performances from Clemson Tigers Athletics

A Retrospective Look at Exceptional North Carolina Football Bench Performances

Editor’s note: This article dives into some of the most memorable contributions from reserve players in North Carolina football history, specifically focusing on games against their rivals, the Clemson Tigers.

Cade Klubnik’s Stellar Performance in ACC Championship Game

After witnessing Cade Klubnik’s stellar MVP performance off the bench in the ACC Championship Game against North Carolina, the memory of fantastic performances by reserve players throughout my career at Clemson came flashing back. This piece could not be more apt as it coincides with the North Carolina game, featuring three remarkable instances against the Tar Heels, dating back to my first Clemson game in 1977.

Cliff Austin’s Decisive Touchdown in the 1978 Gator Bowl

In the 1978 Gator Bowl, Clemson triumphed over Ohio State, thanks largely to Cliff Austin’s touchdown which effectively sealed the victory. This performance helped put Clemson football on the map.

Wilbur Bullard’s Noteworthy Performance in the 1980 North Carolina Game

Wilbur Bullard’s impressive performance in the 1980 game against North Carolina deserves recognition. Although his team suffered a close defeat, Bullard’s 44 rushing yards in the fourth quarter against the Tar Heels was a career highlight.

Craig Crawford’s Record-Setting Game in 1981

Craig Crawford’s unforgettable performance in the 1981 Wake Forest game resulted in one of the most points scored in an ACC game in Clemson’s history. Crawford’s record of 39-yards-per-carry stands as a Clemson record to this day.

The McSwain Brothers’ Contributions in the 1981 South Carolina Game

In the 1981 game against South Carolina, both Chuck and Rod McSwain made significant contributions off the bench. The McSwain brothers played crucial roles in securing a perfect regular season for Clemson.

Dorian Mariable’s Game-Changing Interception in 1988 Citrus Bowl

Dorian Mariable’s third-quarter interception during the 1988 Citrus Bowl against Penn State was a true game-changer. His defensive prowess helped Clemson secure a decisive victory against the Nittany Lions.

Woodrow Dantzler’s Impressive Performance in 1999 Georgia Tech Game

Woodrow Dantzler’s performance off the bench against Georgia Tech in 1999 was remarkable. Despite a heartbreaking loss, Dantzler’s efforts in bringing the Tigers back into the game were outstanding.

Willie Simmons’ Game-Turning Play in 2000 North Carolina Game

Willie Simmons showed his prowess as a downfield passer in the 2000 game against the Tar Heels. Simmons’ four touchdown passes tied for the most by a non-starter, helping the Tigers to a decisive victory.

C.J. Spiller’s Record-Setting Day in 2006 Georgia Tech Game

C.J. Spiller, coming off the bench in the 2006 game against Georgia Tech, set a new record for Clemson. He became the first Tiger in history to score on a run of 50+ yards and a reception of 50+ yards in the same game.

Chase Brice’s Crucial Contributions in 2018 Syracuse Game

Chase Brice came off the bench in the 2018 game against Syracuse and made crucial contributions that led to a Clemson victory. Without Brice’s fourth-down completion during their final drive, Clemson’s path to a national championship might have been jeopardized.

Justyn Ross’ Impressive Performances in 2018 CFP Games

Justyn Ross’s performances in the 2018 College Football Playoff games were exceptional. Ross had the best back-to-back receiving games by a Clemson reserve in history.

Cade Klubnik’s MVP Performance in 2022 ACC Championship Game

Cade Klubnik’s marking his place in history as the only Tiger to earn MVP honors off the bench in a league title game. Klubnik’s performance helped Clemson to secure its seventh ACC championship in eight years and a bid to the Orange Bowl.