The college football regular season wrapped up with a dramatic rivalry week, featuring thrilling finishes, eight-overtime games, and unexpected upsets. Heading into the weekend, no conference title matchups had been set, but all the questions were quickly answered. Clemson’s path to the ACC title game depended on Syracuse upsetting Miami, which the Orange delivered, sending Clemson to face SMU in the championship.
Clemson’s 24-17 loss to South Carolina last weekend didn’t impact their ACC title hopes, as the Gamecocks are in the SEC. Despite Miami leading 21-0 against Syracuse, the Orange staged a strong comeback, securing Clemson’s spot in the title game.
SMU, in its first year in the ACC, has been a surprising force, leading the conference with an undefeated record in ACC play. Initially, teams like Florida State, Miami, and Clemson were seen as the favorites, but SMU has emerged as a contender, favored over Clemson this weekend. They only lost to BYU earlier in the season, a team that turned out to be one of the best in the Big 12.
Clemson, despite a 9-3 record and a shaky season, remains in contention for a College Football Playoff spot with a win. Their losses to Georgia, Louisville, and South Carolina raise questions about their strength, but the weak ACC gives them a real chance to secure the title.
The big concern for Clemson is their defense. Historically strong, their defense is ranked 57th in total yards allowed this season, while SMU boasts the 21st-ranked offense. On the other side, Clemson’s offense is ranked 8th, and SMU’s defense is 28th. This balance points to a tight game, but Clemson’s defense must step up to keep SMU’s potent offense in check.
The ACC Championship game will be held Saturday night at 8:00 ET in Charlotte, North Carolina, airing on ABC. SMU is currently favored by 2.5 points, and the outcome will have major implications for the College Football Playoff.
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