In a thrilling finish to the Atlantic Coast Conference championship, Clemson’s football team managed to secure a dramatic victory against SMU with a last-second field goal, ensuring their place in the College Football Playoff.
Clemson, ranked 18th, triumphed over the previously undefeated No. 8 SMU with a 34-31 victory. The decisive moment came as Nolan Hauser kicked a record-setting 56-yard field goal just as time expired, marking the longest field goal in ACC championship history. This victory not only earned Clemson the ACC title but also positioned them for a potential first-round bye in the expanded 12-team College Football Playoff.
Quarterback Cade Klubnik led Clemson with an impressive performance, throwing for 262 yards and four touchdowns, showcasing his command on the field. Bryant Wesco was a key target, catching eight passes for 143 yards and scoring two touchdowns in the first quarter alone. Tight end Jake Briningstool contributed with two short touchdowns, supporting Clemson in establishing an early lead.
Clemson’s defense also played a crucial role, with edge rusher T.J. Parker setting the tone early with a sack-fumble in the first series, leading to a quick scoring drive. The Tigers dominated the line of scrimmage, putting constant pressure on SMU’s quarterback, Kevin Jennings, who struggled to maintain his rhythm throughout the game.
Despite the setback, SMU mounted a strong comeback, led by Jennings’ 310-yard, three-touchdown performance. The Mustangs erased a 17-point deficit, tying the game with just 16 seconds remaining, thanks to a 4-yard touchdown pass from Jennings to Roderick Daniels.
Clemson then executed a swift and strategic drive initiated by Adam Randall’s crucial 41-yard kickoff return. This set the stage for Klubnik’s key passes, positioning Hauser for the game-winning kick. Head coach Dabo Swinney praised the team’s resilience and expressed his hopes for SMU’s inclusion in the playoffs, acknowledging their strong performance despite the loss.
SMU’s effort, marked by early game errors including dropped passes and penalties, ultimately fell short in this high-stakes match. It was a demonstration of playoff-caliber competition that tested both teams’ capabilities.
Clemson’s remarkable win over SMU in the ACC championship not only highlights their resilience and strategic prowess but also secures them a significant opportunity in the College Football Playoff. Meanwhile, SMU’s valiant effort and strong comeback exhibited their potential as a formidable contender in future playoff scenarios.
