For sponsorship reasons, the game was officially known as the Mazda Gator Bowl.
Clemson retaliated in the second quarter, though, as they converted a 27-yard field goal and then a 1-yard touchdown run.
The Tigers defense got them six more, as they recovered a fumble in the end zone to score yet another touchdown.
Clemson topped their victory off with a 24-yard field goal, and they won the game, 27–7.
As a result of their victory, Clemson rose from their #14 spot to finish at #12 for the 1989 season.