The No. 17 Clemson Tigers clinched a spot in the College Football Playoff by defeating No. 7 SMU 34-31 in a tightly contested ACC championship game on Saturday, held at Bank of America Stadium. The victory marks Clemson’s return to the playoff for the first time since 2020.
A standout moment came from freshman kicker Nolan Hauser, who set a new ACC championship game record with a 56-yard field goal that ultimately secured the win for his team. The Tigers jumped out to a strong start, scoring 21 points in the first quarter and managing to fend off several attempts by SMU to mount a comeback.
Clemson’s defense played a crucial role, forcing two turnovers and recording two sacks to limit SMU’s high-octane offense. Defensive lineman T.J. Parker was particularly impressive, contributing to the defensive effort with an early fumble recovery, pushing his season total to six.
As they gear up for the College Football Playoff selection on Sunday, Clemson will be eager to see where they will be seeded.
The game saw a series of intense moments. After a solid first half, leading 24-7 at halftime, Clemson encountered resilience from SMU, which managed to tie the game late in the fourth quarter. However, Hauser’s record-setting kick in the final moments ensured victory for the Tigers.
This victory not only signifies endurance and talent for Clemson but also serves as a thrilling showcase of college football spectacle. Fans and supporters can look forward with hope, as the team heads into the playoffs aiming for a chance at national championship glory. The game also highlighted the players’ ability to perform under pressure, setting a positive tone for Clemson’s future match-ups.
Both teams displayed remarkable skills and determination, showcasing the competitive spirit of college football. As it stands, this victory offers Clemson a platform to potentially make a deep run in the playoffs, reaffirming the program’s strong legacy in college sports.