Clemson has secured a spot in the College Football Playoff after a thrilling 34-31 victory over No. 7 SMU in the ACC Championship game held on Saturday at Bank of America Stadium. With this win, the Tigers, now 10-3, claimed their ACC title, largely thanks to the heroics of freshman kicker Nolan Hauser, who set a championship game record with a stunning 56-yard field goal.
Clemson jumped to an early lead by scoring 21 points in the first quarter. Despite SMU’s multiple attempts to close the gap, the Tigers held their ground. Clemson’s defense was instrumental, forcing two turnovers and recording two sacks, effectively disrupting SMU’s typically high-output offense. Defensive lineman T.J. Parker notably forced a fumble, recording his sixth turnover of the season, which played a crucial role in maintaining the Tigers’ advantage.
As the game progressed, both teams exhibited their resilience. SMU staged a major comeback attempt, tying the game late in the fourth quarter on a 4-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Kevin Jennings to Roderick Daniels Jr. However, it was Hauser’s decisive kick with mere seconds left on the clock that ultimately secured Clemson’s place in the College Football Playoff for the first time since 2020.
Clemson’s performance showcased both their offensive and defensive talents, paving the way for a hopeful future in the playoffs. As Clemson awaits its seeding in the CFP bracket, fans are filled with optimism about the team’s potential in the postseason.
In summary, Clemson’s impressive display in the ACC Championship not only highlights their growth but also sets them up as a competitive force heading into the College Football Playoff. The determination shown in the match paints a promising picture for the team’s future.