See Clemson football’s Nate Wiggins force goal-line fumble for touchback vs. UNC

CLEMSON — North Carolina running back Omarion Hampton entered Memorial Stadium without a fumble this season. By the end of the first quarter against Clemson, he had two.

The second came on a stellar play by Clemson cornerback Nate Wiggins. Hampton ran 64 yards to the end zone, and the play was called a touchdown on the field. But replay review revealed Wiggins had chased Hampton down and forced the ball out around the 1-yard-line. The fumble went through the end zone for a touchback. Wiggins’ play not only saved a touchdown but gave the Tigers possession.

Wow! Clemson CB Nate Wiggins chases down North Carolina RB Omarion Hampton from behind and forces the fumble for a touchback. What an amazing effort play! pic.twitter.com/S1X28tMmP5

— NFL Highs (@frito_paw) November 18, 2023

The Tigers drove 80 yards on the ensuing possession and scored on a 3-yard pass from Cade Klubnik to Jake Birningstool, tying the score at 7.

Hampton had fumbled on UNC’s opening drive, too. Freshmen defensive tackle Peter Woods was credited with the forced fumble, and freshman defensive end T.J. Parker recovered it. Clemson went three-and-out on the ensuing possession.

Clemson is hoping to win the turnover margin for a third consecutive game. It would be the first time since 2020 that the Tigers won the margin three games in a row, and for a team that struggled with costly turnovers for most of the season, it would be a big accomplishment.

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With the two forced fumbles, Clemson’s season total is up to 10. The Tigers have now recovered nine fumbles. Wiggins’ play was his second caused fumble of the season.

Both Clemson (6-4, 3-4 ACC) and No. 20 UNC (8-2, 4-2) are looking to win their third straight game.

Christina Long covers the Clemson Tigers for the Greenville News and the USA TODAY Network. You can follow her on Twitter @christinalong00 or email her at clong@greenvillenews.com.

This article originally appeared on Greenville News: See Clemson football’s Nate Wiggins force goal-line fumble vs. UNC