No. 5 seed Texas has advanced to the College Football Playoff quarterfinals in Atlanta after defeating No. 12 seed Clemson 38-24. The Longhorns’ dominant ground game was the key to their success, as they racked up 292 rushing yards compared to Clemson’s 76.
Head coach Steve Sarkisian emphasized the importance of a strong running game before the match, saying, “One of the first bullet points I put up in this room was to ‘Run to win’. We needed to run the football to win this game, and that’s what playoff football is about.”
After struggling to establish the run in the Southeastern Conference Championship, Texas’ running back duo of sophomore Quintrevion Wisner and junior Jaydon Blue dominated Clemson’s defense. Blue led the way with 146 yards on 14 carries, including a crucial 77-yard touchdown late in the game that helped seal the win. He also had a 38-yard touchdown earlier in the game.
“It was a sigh of relief,” Blue said of his long touchdown run. “After everything I’ve been going through, it’s all God. I stayed patient and He let me.”
Sarkisian praised Blue for his resilience, noting how the running back overcame a tough ankle injury and fumble issues this season. He also commended Wisner, who had rushed for over 150 yards in the final two regular-season games, for his contribution despite an injury.
While Texas’ offense performed well overall, with quarterback Quinn Ewers throwing for 202 yards, Clemson’s quarterback Cade Klubnik also impressed with 336 yards passing. However, the game ultimately came down to the Longhorns’ dominant ground attack, which proved to be too much for Clemson’s defense.
Texas will aim to continue their strong rushing performance in the playoff quarterfinals against Arizona State on January 1.
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