SMU coach Rhett Lashlee advocates for his team’s inclusion in the College Football Playoff after a hard-fought loss against Clemson in the ACC Championship.
In a dramatic matchup held in Charlotte, North Carolina, Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik experienced an emotional rollercoaster. Following a disappointing loss to South Carolina a week prior, he feared the playoff aspirations for his team had slipped away. However, with a twist of fate courtesy of Syracuse’s surprise victory over Miami, Clemson earned another shot in the ACC title showdown.
Clemson seized the opportunity, overcoming No. 8 SMU with a 34-31 victory, thereby securing their place in the College Football Playoff and possibly a first-round bye. Klubnik delivered a standout performance, throwing for 262 yards and four touchdowns, while kicker Nolan Hauser made history with a game-winning 56-yard field goal as time expired.
Reflecting on the game, Klubnik joyfully described the experience, comparing it to a reprieve from his mother’s call to come inside, saying, “We got five more minutes to play football — and that’s how we viewed tonight.” The Tigers’ victory was a testament to their resilience, with head coach Dabo Swinney praising the heart of his team as they advanced to the playoffs for the seventh time under his leadership.
On the other side, SMU was impressive throughout the season, finishing with an 11-2 record in their inaugural year in the ACC. Quarterback Kevin Jennings threw for 310 yards and three touchdowns, showcasing his potential as a playoff-caliber player, as noted by Lashlee. Despite the early mistakes that put them at a disadvantage, the Mustangs rallied impressively, tying the game late in the fourth quarter and demonstrating their strength and determination.
The game concluded with a thrilling last-minute drive from Clemson that set up Hauser’s record-setting kick. SMU coach Rhett Lashlee acknowledged their defensive lapses but remained optimistic about his team’s capabilities and the potential for inclusion in the playoffs, urging for recognition of SMU’s competitive spirit.
As Clemson prepares for the playoffs, SMU waits to see if they will also receive a playoff berth, showcasing the depth of talent in college football this season.
The resilience displayed by both teams is a positive sign for the future of college football, reflecting the growth and competitiveness of programs across various conferences. With the playoffs approaching, fans can look forward to intense matchups and the emergence of new talent on the national stage.