Clemson makes statement with big win over Notre Dame

Clemson took an early lead and the held on late, with the help of some turnovers, as the 12th-ranked Tigers upended No. 6 Notre Dame at home 24-22.

Here's what you need to know:

• As it stands, Independent schools have a tough road to the College Football Playoff given they can't be crowned a conference champion. So with the loss, it's difficult to fathom the idea of Notre Dame making it to the final four, though not impossible.
• In slick conditions, Clemson's Deshaun Watson struggled to find a grip on the ball. Despite throwing two touchdown passes, he only completed 11 passes for 97 yards. On the ground, he rushed for 93 yards and a score.
• Notre Dame quarterback DeShone Kizer was stellar in the losing effort, throwing for 321 yards, two touchdowns and a pick. He also rushed for 60 yards and a score.
• Given the brutal weather, the team that came out on top was the team that committed the least mistakes, and Notre Dame came out on the wrong end of that. The Fighting Irish turned the ball over four times, including three fumbles - all in the second half.
• Despite walking away with a loss, Notre Dame netted 437 total yards to Clemson's 296.
• Notre Dame running back C.J. Prosise had a big day, netting 100 receiving yards on four catches, including a long 56-yard score. He also rushed for 50 yards.

Play of the Game

Notre Dame scored a touchdown with seven seconds left in the game, and needed a two-point conversion to send the game into overtime. But in cold temperatures, and gusty winds, Clemson's defense came up clutch one last time, stuffing the Fighting Irish at the goal line.