The 2024 ACC Championship Game is set to be a thrilling matchup between No. 8 SMU and No. 17 Clemson, with significant implications for the College Football Playoff on the line. The winner is virtually guaranteed a spot as one of the top five ranked conference champions. SMU had an impressive season, finishing with an 11-1 record and an undefeated 8-0 mark in their inaugural ACC season. In contrast, Clemson ended the season at 9-3, holding a 7-1 record in the conference. While SMU has consistently exceeded expectations and performed well against the spread (7-4), Clemson struggled a bit with a 5-7 record against the spread.
The game will kick off at 8 p.m. ET at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte. Despite both teams boasting over a century of history, this matchup will mark the first time they face each other. Currently, SMU is favored by 2.5 points, with the total points over/under set at 55.5.
SMU’s head coach Rhett Lashlee has found success in his third season, achieving back-to-back 11-win seasons. After a strategic quarterback switch to Kevin Jennings, the Mustangs have flourished, and their defense has improved significantly, conceding only 13 points and 427 yards in their final two victories over Virginia and California.
Clemson’s head coach, Dabo Swinney, leads a talented team that has faced tough competition, suffering losses against ranked opponents. Quarterback Cade Klubnik has emerged as a standout player, throwing for over 3,000 yards and 29 touchdowns this season, showcasing his ability to lead the team effectively.
In terms of betting insights, the SportsLine model is predicting a high-scoring game, leaning towards the over on total points, and identifies a side of the spread hitting over 60% of the time.
The upcoming championship game promises excitement as both teams vie for a notable victory and a crucial playoff berth. As fans gear up for this momentous occasion, there’s a palpable sense of anticipation surrounding this inaugural clash that underlines the competitive spirit of college football.
In summary, the ACC Championship Game represents a pivotal moment in the season, spotlighting the emerging talents of SMU and the resilience of Clemson as they both aim for a foothold in the College Football Playoff landscape. It’s a testament to the unpredictability and thrill of college football, where every game can change the course of a team’s future.