Watch: Clemson CB hustles to force huge fumble

Clemson HC Dabo Swinney leads his team onto the field Ken Ruinard-USA TODAY Sports

Watch: Clemson CB hustles to force touchdown-saving fumble vs. No. 20 UNC

By Mike Santa Barbara | Last updated 11/18/23

Already down 7-0 early against No. 20 North Carolina, Clemson was staring a two-touchdown deficit in the face until junior cornerback Nate Wiggins came to the rescue, making perhaps the hustle play of the year in college football.

Near the end of the first quarter, North Carolina running back Omarion Hampton broke loose for what looked to be a 64-yard touchdown sprint. However, Wiggins chased him down from behind, forcing a fumble before Hampton could cross the goal line.

Oh man, watch the speed from Nate Wiggins to chase down RB Hampton and knock the ball out. Turned a TD into a turnover and Clemson ball.

Made a similar play in the Miami game. Speed, speed, speed. pic.twitter.com/kqVT8F8rNN
— Dane Brugler (@dpbrugler) November 18, 2023

The initial call on the field was a touchdown, but an official review reversed the ruling, taking points off the board for North Carolina while giving Clemson possession. The hustle play is old hat for Wiggins, who made a similar play in Week 7 against Miami, catching up to speedy wideout Brashard Smith.

Watch Clemson's Nate Wiggins at the top of the screen and the effort he gives to track down one of Miami's fastest players and cause a fumble before the ball-carrier crosses the goal line. He did so after being in man coverage, turning his back to the play and relocating the ball pic.twitter.com/8lStDRUk0C
— Brent Sobleski (@brentsobleski) October 25, 2023

For Hampton, it was his second lost fumble of the day. Worse yet, both occurred inside the five-yard line. Hampton's uncharacteristic blunders prevented the Tar Heels from burying the Tigers early in a must-win game for North Carolina as they look to secure a spot in the ACC Championship Game. Entering Saturday's action, Hampton had yet to fumble on the season, going 208 carries without one until the first quarter against Clemson.

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