CLEMSON, S.C. — Clemson star running back Travis Etienne said in the spring that he returned to school for his senior season to "leave a legacy" and "be remembered forever."
With fellow Heisman candidate Trevor Lawrence out of Saturday's game against Boston College after testing positive for COVID-19 this week, Etienne put together another remarkable performance to add to his illustrious career.
The senior accounted for 224 total yards and a pair of touchdowns Saturday afternoon to help No. 1 Clemson to a 34-28 come-from-behind victory in front of 18,690 fans at Memorial Stadium.
Etienne's go-ahead 17-yard touchdown early in the fourth quarter proved to be the game-winner as Clemson rallied from a 28-10 first-half deficit. Saturday's win was the largest home comeback in program history.
"I told Travis in the locker room that today I saw the culmination of what I've been pushing him so hard for," Clemson offensive coordinator Tony Elliott said. "I saw things today (with leadership) that when Trevor's there, when both of those guys are in the backfield, Travis might not have to do some of those things."
The Louisiana native became the ACC's all-time leading rusher during the game, breaking the record held by former N.C. State star Ted Brown, who rushed for 4,602 yards from 1975-78.
Etienne and fellow seniors Cornell Powell and Amari Rodgers made big play after big play for Clemson freshman quarterback D.J. Uiagalelei, who was making his first start.
Powell finished with 11 catches for 105 yards, while Rodgers added seven grabs for 66 yards and a score.
Etienne, Powell and Rodgers combined to catch 25 passes for 311 yards and three scores. The rest of Clemson's team had five catches for 31 yards.
"Really proud of those older guys for stepping up," Elliott said. "Cornell was challenged this week at practice by coach Swinney."
Uiagalelei looked nothing like a freshman in the win, displaying poise and accuracy that are rare for a first-year player.
The California native was 30-of-41 passing for 342 yards and two touchdowns. He also had a 30-yard touchdown run.
Lawrence, watching the game while isolated from the team, congratulated the team and Uiagalelei via social media: "LETS GO!!! So happy for this team. Great win. Miss being there more than anything. @DJUiagalelei did your thing proud of you."
Clemson's defense got off to a slow start, allowing Boston College to score touchdowns on its first two drives. After that, the Tigers settled in.
Brent Venables' unit held Boston College scoreless in the second half and limited the Eagles to 66 yards of offense in the second half.
Clemson's win sets up a top-five showdown with No. 4 Notre Dame next week.
