Clemson football is back in the College Football Playoff (CFP), and they got there in dramatic fashion. A record-setting 56-yard game-winning field goal by Nolan Hauser as time expired sealed the Tigersโ nail-biting 34-31 victory over SMU in the ACC Championship on Saturday night at Bank of America Stadium. This heart-stopping finish punched Clemsonโs ticket to the CFP for the first time since 2020.
A Dream Start for the Tigers
The Tigers (10-2) roared out of the gates, quickly building a 14-0 lead within the first five minutes of the game. Quarterback Cade Klubnik wasted no time finding his rhythm, connecting with standout freshman receiver Bryant Wesco on a 35-yard touchdown pass just moments after T.J. Parker forced an SMU fumble. Clemsonโs defense followed up with a quick stop, and the offense capitalized again, with Klubnik hitting tight end Jake Briningstool for a five-yard score.
By halftime, Clemson had extended their lead to 24-7, thanks to a 44-yard field goal by Hauser and another electric touchdown by Wesco, who finished the game with career-highs in catches (8), receiving yards (142), and touchdowns (2). The Tigers looked unstoppable as they headed to the locker room.
SMUโs Stunning Comeback
However, SMU (10-2) wasnโt ready to roll over. Mustang quarterback Kevin Jennings orchestrated a fourth-quarter rally that had Clemson fans on the edge of their seats. Jennings threw a four-yard touchdown pass to Roderick Daniels with just 16 seconds left, tying the game at 31-31 and seemingly sending the contest into overtime.
But Clemson had other plans.
Special Teams Shine in Crunch Time
With time running out, Adam Randall delivered a clutch 41-yard kickoff return, giving Clemson a fighting chance. Klubnik then found Antonio Williams for a 17-yard gain, setting up Hauserโs redemption moment. After missing a 43-yard attempt earlier in the game, Hauser showed nerves of steel, nailing the longest game-winning field goal in ACC Championship history to send Clemson fans into a frenzy.
Offensive Stars Shine Bright
Cade Klubnik proved why heโs the leader of this Clemson football team. The sophomore quarterback finished 24-of-41 for 262 yards and four touchdowns, including three in the first quarter. His poise in delivering the critical final completion to Williams showcased his maturity and star potential.
Bryant Wesco was another game-changer. The 5-star freshman from Texas put on a show, with his two touchdown grabs showcasing his speed and precision route-running. His seamless connection with Klubnik was a highlight throughout the game and will be a cornerstone for Clemsonโs offense moving forward.
Tight end Jake Briningstool also delivered when it mattered most. He hauled in two touchdown passes and even recovered a crucial fumble, proving his value as a versatile and reliable target.
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Defense Steps Up Despite Late Scare
Clemsonโs defense had its ups and downs but delivered key plays that shaped the game. T.J. Parkerโs early strip sack set the tone, leading to Clemsonโs first touchdown. Khalil Barnes made a critical interception in the second quarter, snuffing out an SMU drive and keeping the Mustangs at bay during the first half.
While SMUโs fourth-quarter surge exposed some vulnerabilities, Wes Goodwinโs defensive unit made enough big plays to keep the Tigers in control for most of the game.
Dabo Swinneyโs Moment of Joy
After enduring criticism throughout the offseason, Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney was jubilant in his postgame interview. With a playful grin, Swinney quoted Lloyd Christmas from the movie Dumb and Dumber: โSo youโre saying thereโs a chance?โ His humor and joy reflected the relief of overcoming challenges to return Clemson football to the CFP stage.
Looking Ahead
Clemson now awaits their CFP opponent, and the Tigers are brimming with momentum after this thrilling win. With Klubnik firing on all cylinders, Wesco emerging as a star, and Hauser proving he can deliver in the clutch, Clemson football fans have plenty of reasons to believe their team is primed for a deep playoff run.
This game wasnโt just a winโit was a statement. Clemson football is back, and the Tigers are ready to reclaim their spot among college footballโs elite.
