Clemson surges in second half, takes down Georgia Tech 41-10

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DJ Uiagalelie threw for one touchdown and ran for another, overcoming a sluggish start in the season opener as No. 4 Clemson pulled away for a 41-10 victory over Georgia Tech on Monday night.

Uiagalelie completed 19 of 32 passes for 209 yards, including a 6-yard scoring play to Beaux Collins that gave the Tigers a two-touchdown lead in the first half.

Georgia Tech, looking to improve on three straight three-win seasons that have put coach Geoff Collins on the hot seat, kept it closer than expected much of the way.

But the Yellow Jackets couldn't overcome two blocked punts, both of which led to short touchdown runs by Will Shipley.

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Will Shipley #1 of the Clemson Tigers reacts after rushing for a touchdown against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets during the second quarter with Marcus Tate #74 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on September 05, 2022, in Atlanta, Georgia. (Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

Georgia Tech pulled within 14-10 on an impressive drive in the third quarter, culminating with Jeff Sims tossing a 13-yard TD pass to 6-foot-7 transfer E.J. Jenkins.

But Uiagalelie, in what was probably the play of the game, appeared headed for a sack when he was cornered by two Georgia Tech defenders on the third-and-4. But the quarterback managed to stay upright just long enough to flip a lateral to Shipley, who rumbled 10 yards to keep the Clemson offense on the field.

"I was trying to get out of the pocket, trying to buy some time to get the ball away," Uiagalelie said. "As I was going to the ground I looked to my left and saw Shipley there. I just pitched it to him. He made a great run."

The Tigers drove