The 2025 College Football Playoff field has been finalized, with few surprises. While SMU earned a spot over several three-loss SEC teams, including Alabama, this was expected after their narrow loss to Clemson on a dramatic 56-yard field goal.
Now, let’s break down the field and the matchups, starting with the 12th seed, the Clemson Tigers.
Record: 10-3 (7-1 ACC)
How They Got Here: Although it wasn’t an easy path, Clemson made it back to the playoff for the first time in four years. The Tigers suffered losses to Louisville, Georgia, and South Carolina but largely dominated the ACC. They earned their conference title in dramatic fashion, beating SMU with a last-second field goal, securing the 12th seed in the process.
The Good: Clemson has a wealth of championship experience, with head coach Dabo Swinney having led the team to multiple playoff appearances. Quarterback Cade Clubnik has developed into a strong dual-threat in recent weeks, and the defense has held strong in close games.
The Bad: Clemson isn’t the powerhouse it once was. Their skill positions have underperformed all season, and they’ve struggled against top teams. Losses to Georgia, Louisville, and South Carolina exposed weaknesses, and they’ve been inconsistent throughout. Their offensive efficiency ranks poorly, and the defense doesn’t fare much better. This Clemson team will face an uphill battle in the playoffs.
Playoff Path: The Tigers will face Texas in the first round, a daunting task for a team that has shown vulnerabilities. If they manage to pull off an upset, they’ll likely face Arizona State, a team more in line with their current level.
The Verdict: While it’s an accomplishment for Clemson to make the playoff this season, it seems like a tough road ahead. With their talent lacking compared to the top teams, their playoff run could be short-lived. Making it to the field is a victory in itself, but they’ll face a fierce challenge in the first round.
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