Clemson University has secured its place in the College Football Playoff after a thrilling victory over No. 7 SMU in the ACC Championship Game held on Saturday night at Bank of America Stadium. The No. 17 Tigers edged out the Mustangs with a final score of 34-31, thanks in large part to a record-breaking 56-yard field goal by freshman kicker Nolan Hauser, setting a new ACC championship game record.
Clemson’s strong start was crucial, as they scored 21 points in the first quarter, establishing a lead that they worked hard to maintain. The Tigers’ defense played an essential role in their victory, forcing two turnovers and recording two sacks against SMU’s typically high-scoring offense. Notably, defensive lineman T.J. Parker contributed significantly to the defensive effort with his sixth forced fumble of the season.
As they celebrate this significant win, the team and its fans now await Selection Sunday to find out their seeding in the College Football Playoff bracket. This victory marks Clemson’s return to the CFP for the first time since the 2020 season, offering renewed hopes for championship aspirations.
To summarize the pivotal moments: Clemson started strong with multiple touchdowns and kept SMU at bay even as the Mustangs made several attempts to close the gap. Although SMU tied the game in the final moments with a 4-yard touchdown, Clemson’s decisive field goal sealed the win.
This victory for Clemson not only showcases their resilience but also underscores the potential for further achievements as they prepare for the playoffs. The excitement within the team and its supporters reflects a hopeful outlook for the remainder of the season.