Halftime Report: Clemson plays their ugliest half since Duke, leads Wake Forest 7-3

Clemson turned the ball over twice in the first half against Wake Forest, but an elite defensive performance has helped the Tigers hold on to the lead.

Clemson's defense has to be getting frustrated. Once again, the Tigers' defensive unit is playing incredible football while the offense and special teams are doing everything they can to lose the game.

The Demon Deacons had four drives start inside of Clemson territory in the first half. They were only able to come away with one field goal. The defense was able to force a turnover on downs after Cade Klubnik fumbled an exchange with Will Shipley inside of their own 10-yard line. The defense is one of the best in the country, that's clear, but how long can they make up for the offense this afternoon?

Clemson Athletics

Speaking of the offense, Clemson rushed for just 40 yards in the first half. Will Shipley and Phil Mafah have a combined 20 yards on four carries each. The Tigers picked up just 124 yards on 33 plays (3.8 yards per play). There has been no sign of the aggressive, downfield passing game we've seen over the past couple of weeks. 

You have to wonder: When does Clemson's struggles offensively move from "early season jitters" to just the reality of the situation? Something needs to change.

First half stats

• Cade Klubnik - 12-18, 84 yards, 7 rushes, 20 yards, 1 TD
• Beaux Collins - 4 receptions, 43 yards
• Wade Woodaz - 2 sacks

How to Watch Wake Forest at Clemson

• Who's playing: Wake Forest (3-1) vs Clemson (3-2)
• Gameday: Saturday, October 7th
• Game time: 3:30 pm ET
• TV: ACCN
• Location: Memorial Stadium (Clemson, SC)
• Stream on ESPN - HERE
• Commentators: Chris Cotter, Mark Herzlich, Sherree Burruss
• Listen: ClemsonTigers.com