In an exhilarating turn of events at the Gator Bowl, Kentucky’s Barion Brown and quarterback Devin Leary combined forces to reclaim the lead against Clemson. Brown, the dynamic sophomore receiver, achieved a hat trick by scoring his third touchdown in various styles. The pivotal moment came when Leary connected with Brown for a dramatic 60-yard touchdown pass, marking Brown’s first receiving touchdown of the game. This score was particularly significant as it followed Brown’s fumble on the previous possession, a mistake that had temporarily handed the lead back to Clemson.
Brown’s remarkable performance included the game’s first touchdown, a 22-yard rush, followed by a record-breaking 100-yard kickoff return touchdown after halftime. In total, Brown’s seven touches against Clemson yielded an impressive 224 yards and three touchdowns. This included four receptions for 98 yards, two rushes for 26 yards, and the standout 100-yard kickoff return. Brown’s explosive performance at Jacksonville’s EverBank Stadium not only showcased his versatile skills but also placed him in contention for in-game honors. The Wildcats and Clemson continued to battle fiercely in the fourth quarter, highlighting the intensity of the contest​​.