Clemson's victory over Iowa State secures 11th consecutive 10-win season
Clemson made history on Thursday night with its 20-13 win over Iowa State in the Cheez-It Bowl.
The victory moved the Tigers to 10-3 on the season, meaning they have extended their streak of 10-win seasons to 11. That’s the third most all-time, according to ESPN Stats & Info, trailing only dynasties from Alabama and Florida State.
With their win over Iowa State today in the Cheez-It Bowl, Clemson now has 11 straight 10-win seasons.
It's the 3rd-longest streak in FBS history behind Alabama (14, 2008-present) and Florida State (14, 1987-2000). pic.twitter.com/dDNigW0Axl
— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) December 30, 2021
The Tigers used a 14-point third quarter to squeak by the Cyclones. They struggled offensively for much of the night, but Mario Goodrich’s pick six late in the third quarter was enough to secure the win.
Running back Will Shipley was impressive, rushing for 61 yards and a touchdown. He also caught 5 passes for 53 yards, which was the second-most on the team.
But like most of the 2021 season, it was Clemson’s defense that got it done. The Tigers limited Iowa State quarterback Brock Purdy to just 204 yards on 39 pass attempts. They also forced a game-saving fumble in the final minutes as the Cyclones were driving with a chance to tie the game.
Clemson will now turn its attention to the remainder of the 2022 recruiting class and building its coaching staff around new coordinators. Both defensive coordinator Brent Venables (Oklahoma) and offensive coordinator (Tony Elliott) left for head coaching jobs this offseason.