Clemson football has secured a place in the College Football Playoff after a thrilling victory over No. 7 SMU in the ACC Championship game. The Tigers, ranked 17th, triumphed with a score of 34-31 at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte. The decisive moment of the game came when freshman kicker Nolan Hauser set a record for the ACC Championship with a stunning 56-yard field goal, clinching the game for Clemson.
Clemson started strong, scoring three touchdowns in the first quarter to establish a significant lead. Despite their efforts, SMU fought back, notably tying the game late in the fourth quarter with a lengthy touchdown drive led by quarterback Kevin Jennings. However, Clemson’s defense, which forced two turnovers and recorded two sacks, ultimately stymied SMU’s attempts to take control of the game.
The refusal to back down on defense was particularly notable from defensive lineman T.J. Parker, who increased his season turnover total to six by forcing a fumble in the first half. Clemson now looks forward to Selection Sunday to discover its seeding in the playoff bracket.
This victory marks a significant return for Clemson to the playoffs for the first time since 2020, providing a hopeful outlook for fans and the program alike. As college football heads into the postseason, Clemson’s resurgence could ignite a thrilling run in the playoffs.
In summary, Clemson’s determination and strategic play, coupled with standout performances, paved the way for their ACC title and playoff berth, signaling an exciting chapter for the team.