Clemson Connection Shines Bright in Bengals’ Blowout Win Over Miami
The Bengals may be out of the playoff hunt, but don’t let that fool you - there’s still plenty of firepower on this roster. And on Sunday, in a 45-21 rout of the Dolphins, two former Clemson Tigers reminded everyone just how much game-changing talent is still wearing stripes in Cincinnati.
Tee Higgins: Back, Healthy, and in the End Zone
After a frustrating stretch marred by two stints in concussion protocol, Tee Higgins returned to the field with something to prove - and he wasted no time making his presence felt.
Fully cleared and finally back at full strength, Higgins gave the Bengals exactly what they’ve been missing: a reliable, physical red-zone target who knows how to finish drives. He hauled in three catches for 53 yards and a touchdown, providing a steadying presence in the passing game and a reminder of the kind of impact he can have when he’s on the field.
While injuries have likely derailed his shot at another 1,000-yard season, Higgins is quietly putting together one of his most efficient scoring campaigns to date. That touchdown on Sunday? It gave him 10 for the season - tying his career high - and once again showcased his knack for finding the end zone when it matters most.
It’s the kind of performance that doesn’t just help his team - it reinforces his value as one of the league’s most dependable finishers near the goal line. And with his contract situation looming, Higgins continues to show why he’s a player worth betting on.
Barrett Carter: Rookie No More
On the defensive side, another former Clemson standout is making waves - and fast.
Barrett Carter may have entered the season as a fourth-round pick with a rotational role, but those days are long gone. Since earning his first start back in Week 6, Carter has emerged as a fixture in Cincinnati’s defense, and on Sunday, he delivered one of his most complete performances yet.
Carter racked up five tackles, broke up two passes, and snagged the first interception of his young NFL career - flashing the kind of instincts in coverage that are rare for a rookie linebacker. Add that to a season stat line that already includes 70 tackles, three pass deflections, and a tackle for loss, and it’s clear: Carter isn’t just learning on the job - he’s thriving.
His breakout moment may have come earlier this year with a 16-tackle showing against New England, but Sunday’s performance confirmed what Bengals coaches have been seeing for weeks: Carter is the real deal. He’s not just filling a role - he’s becoming a cornerstone.
Clemson’s NFL Pipeline Still Running Strong
Even in a season where the playoffs are out of reach, Cincinnati is getting meaningful contributions from players who represent the next generation of Clemson’s NFL pipeline.
Higgins, the proven veteran, continues to be a red-zone weapon and locker room leader. Carter, the rising rookie, is quickly becoming one of the Bengals’ most consistent defensive playmakers. Together, they’re proof that Clemson’s influence on the pro game isn’t slowing down anytime soon.
The Bengals will wrap up their season at home on Dec. 28 against the Cardinals, and once again, all eyes will be on their Clemson connection. Whether it’s Higgins making plays through the air or Carter flying around on defense, these Tigers are giving Cincinnati fans something to cheer about - and a glimpse of what the future might hold.