Illustration of ACC Championship Showdown: Can SMU Make History Against Clemson?

ACC Championship Showdown: Can SMU Make History Against Clemson?

The upcoming 2024 ACC Championship Game promises to be an exciting clash between No. 8 SMU and No. 17 Clemson, with significant implications for the College Football Playoff. The winner is likely to secure a spot as one of the top five ranked conference champions. The Mustangs have had an impressive season, boasting an 11-1 record and finishing their debut ACC season with an undefeated 8-0 record. Conversely, the Tigers have a solid 9-3 season under their belts, with a 7-1 mark in conference play. Notably, SMU has exceeded expectations this year, going 7-4 against the spread, while Clemson has struggled slightly at 5-7 against the number. In a recent development, Clemson’s head coach mentioned that star running back Phil Mafah is dealing with a minor injury, making his availability uncertain for the championship game.

The game is scheduled to kick off at 8 p.m. ET at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte. SMU is favored by 2.5 points with an over/under set at 55.5 total points. Those interested in betting on this matchup can refer to predictions from the SportsLine Projection Model, which has proven successful in simulating games and generating profits for its followers.

For those considering backing SMU, coach Rhett Lashlee has led the team to its second consecutive 11-win season. Despite being initially projected to finish seventh in the ACC preseason poll, SMU defied expectations. Quarterback Kevin Jennings sparked the offense after replacing the AAC’s most efficient passer from last season, contributing to their unbeaten conference run. Furthermore, SMU’s defense has shown significant improvement late in the season, limiting opponents to just 13 points and 427 total yards in recent victories over Virginia and California.

On the other hand, Clemson, under head coach Dabo Swinney, still possesses one of the most talented rosters in the ACC despite facing challenges over the past few seasons. Their three losses were against ranked teams and a competitive Louisville squad. Quarterback Cade Klubnik has been a standout player, throwing for over 3,000 yards and accounting for multiple touchdowns in each of Clemson’s nine victories this season.

According to SportsLine’s projections, the model leans towards the over on the total, expecting 60 combined points in the game, and suggests that one side of the spread has a success rate exceeding 60%.

Both teams have shown resilience and talent throughout the season, setting the stage for a thrilling championship that not only highlights their achievements but also infuses hope for the future of college football. This matchup could very well be a turning point for either program, with SMU looking to cement its status in the ACC and Clemson hoping to regain its place among college football’s elite.

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