The ACC Championship game between the Clemson Tigers and the SMU Mustangs was a thrilling clash filled with big plays, strategic moves, and dramatic moments. Both teams came into the game with much at stake: Clemson seeking to reassert its dominance in the ACC and SMU looking to cement their rise as a football powerhouse. Here’s a breakdown of the game’s key highlights, pivotal plays, and final outcome.

First Quarter: A Defensive Battle

The game kicked off with both teams showcasing their defensive prowess. Clemson’s defensive line, led by star tackle Tyler Davis, kept SMU’s explosive offense in check. SMU’s quarterback, Preston Stone, struggled early to find his rhythm, facing relentless pressure from Clemson’s pass rush.

Meanwhile, Clemson’s offense, led by quarterback Cade Klubnik, attempted to establish a ground game. Will Shipley managed a few solid runs, but SMU’s defense, anchored by linebacker Ahmad Walker, held firm.

Key Play: SMU forced an early turnover when Walker stripped the ball from Shipley on a run, giving SMU great field position. However, Clemson’s defense held them to a field goal, making it 3-0 in favor of SMU.

Second Quarter: SMU Finds Momentum

SMU’s offense began to heat up in the second quarter, with Preston Stone connecting on key passes to wide receiver Jordan Kerley. Their chemistry was evident as Kerley hauled in a 45-yard touchdown, extending SMU’s lead to 10-0.

Clemson responded with a methodical drive, utilizing short passes and runs to march down the field. Klubnik capped the drive with a 10-yard touchdown pass to tight end Jake Briningstool, cutting the lead to 10-7.

Key Play: SMU’s kicker, Collin Rogers, nailed a 52-yard field goal as time expired in the half, giving the Mustangs a 13-7 lead heading into the locker room.

Third Quarter: Clemson Strikes Back

Clemson came out firing in the second half, making adjustments to their offensive scheme. Klubnik began targeting Antonio Williams and Beaux Collins on quick slants and out routes, exploiting gaps in SMU’s secondary.

A pivotal moment came when Clemson’s defense intercepted Preston Stone on a deep pass attempt, giving the Tigers a short field. Klubnik capitalized on the turnover with a 5-yard touchdown run, giving Clemson their first lead of the game, 14-13.

Key Play: SMU answered with a 70-yard kickoff return that set up a quick touchdown run by Jaylan Knighton, reclaiming the lead at 20-14.

Fourth Quarter: A Nail-Biting Finish

The final quarter was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading scores. Clemson’s kicker, Jonathan Weitz, hit a 42-yard field goal to cut SMU’s lead to 20-17. Moments later, SMU’s Stone orchestrated a masterful drive, culminating in a touchdown pass to Kerley, extending their lead to 27-17.

Clemson refused to back down, with Klubnik leading a desperate drive late in the game. A 25-yard touchdown pass to Briningstool brought the Tigers within three points at 27-24.

Final Moments: Clemson had one last chance to tie or win the game. With under a minute remaining, Klubnik led the Tigers into field goal range. However, Weitz’s 48-yard attempt to send the game into overtime sailed wide left, sealing SMU’s victory.

Final Score: SMU 27, Clemson 24

Key Performers

SMU Mustangs

Preston Stone (QB): 285 passing yards, 2 touchdowns, 1 interception.
Jordan Kerley (WR): 8 receptions, 125 yards, 2 touchdowns.
Jaylan Knighton (RB): 75 rushing yards, 1 touchdown.

Clemson Tigers

Cade Klubnik (QB): 265 passing yards, 2 touchdowns, 1 rushing touchdown.
Will Shipley (RB): 85 rushing yards, 40 receiving yards.
Jake Briningstool (TE): 6 receptions, 80 yards, 2 touchdowns.

Game Analysis

Clemson’s Missed Opportunities: The Tigers’ failure to convert on third downs and their missed field goal in the final seconds proved costly.
SMU’s Explosive Offense: Big plays from Stone and Kerley showcased SMU’s ability to score quickly, putting constant pressure on Clemson.
Defensive Battles: Both teams had standout defensive moments, but SMU’s ability to force turnovers gave them the edge.

Implications for SMU

With this victory, SMU not only claimed the ACC Championship but also bolstered their case for a spot in the College Football Playoff. Their ability to beat a storied program like Clemson solidifies their legitimacy as a rising powerhouse.

This game will be remembered as a testament to SMU’s resurgence and Clemson’s resilience. Both teams left it all on the field, delivering a thrilling contest for fans and setting the stage for an exciting bowl season.

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