Clemson beats Florida State 36-24 as Reynolds throws first TDs in a month

Clemson overcame a late push by Florida State to win 36-24 on Saturday night in Tallahassee. Freshman quarterback Tait Reynolds broke a four-game drought without a touchdown pass, connecting on two scoring throws in the first half to build an early lead for the Tigers.

Reynolds threw touchdown passes to Christian Bentancur and Olsen Patt-Henry. Clemson held a 23-10 advantage after 30 minutes of play. The Tigers extended their lead with additional scoring drives, while Florida State attempted to claw back the deficit in the second half.

The Seminoles found success through the air, with Ashton Daniels completing 21 of 33 passes for 350 yards. Daniels threw a 46-yard touchdown pass to Micahi Danzy and a 41-yard score to Jasen Lopez. He also rushed for a 13-yard touchdown. However, Daniels threw three interceptions and fumbled once, contributing to Florida State's third consecutive loss.

Reynolds sealed the victory with a 79-yard rushing touchdown on third-and-12 with 3:17 remaining. He finished the game 18 for 32 for 189 passing yards. Clemson kicker Nolan Hauser made five field goals from distances of 50, 49, 46, 35, and 35 yards. Hauser now has 23 successful attempts out of 24 in the 2026 season.

Clemson left guard Elyjah Thurmon exited the game in the second quarter. He lay on the field for approximately 10 minutes before being placed on a backboard and driven off on a cart. Thurmon gave a thumbs up during the exit. Florida State played its first game without leading rusher Ousmane Kromah and managed 65 rushing yards on 29 carries.

Clemson improves to 5-3 overall and 3-2 in the Atlantic Coast Conference. Florida State drops to 3-5 overall and 1-4 in conference play. Clemson travels to Syracuse on Saturday, while Florida State hosts Boston College.