By : Sabri Haidar
(Photo/Sabri Haidar-The Mojo Network)
The Clemson Tigers have officially secured their spot in the 2024 Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Football Championship Game, set to take place on Saturday, December 7, at 8 p.m. ET in Charlotte, North Carolina. The game, airing in primetime on ABC, marks the 15th time in 16 years that the championship will be played under the lights. Clemson, ranked No. 12 nationally, will face No. 9 SMU in what promises to be a showdown between two top-12 teams.
Clemson’s Path to the Championship
The Tigers enter the game with a 9-3 overall record and a 7-1 finish in ACC play, demonstrating consistent excellence under head coach Dabo Swinney. Clemson has been a mainstay in the national rankings throughout the season, climbing as high as No. 9 in the AP Poll and No. 8 in the Coaches Poll. Their offense has been particularly potent, ranking among the nation’s top 12 in both total yards and scoring with an impressive average of 35.7 points per game.
A hallmark of Clemson’s success this season has been its balanced attack. The Tigers are the only team in the nation averaging over 190 rushing yards and 270 passing yards per game, highlighting their versatility and ability to keep defenses guessing. Quarterback Cade Klubnik and running back Phil Mafah have been central to this dynamic offense, delivering standout performances throughout the year.
Final Regular Season Results
Despite their offensive firepower, Clemson stumbled in their regular-season finale, falling 17-14 to rival South Carolina. The game ended in heartbreak for the Tigers, as Klubnik’s late-game pass was tipped and intercepted with just 12 seconds remaining. Following the loss, Swinney expressed frustration with the officiating, citing key calls that went against his team.
In contrast, SMU closed out its regular season in dominant fashion, cruising to a 38-6 victory over Cal to remain undefeated in ACC play at 8-0. The Mustangs, with an 11-1 overall record, have proven themselves as one of the conference's top contenders and will pose a formidable challenge for Clemson.
Championship Implications
The stakes for the ACC Championship Game couldn’t be higher. Both Clemson and SMU are vying for a spot in the expanded 12-team College Football Playoff, and the winner is likely to secure the ACC’s automatic bid. For Clemson, a loss would not only eliminate playoff hopes but also be a pause in the rebuilding momentum of the program.
SMU, on the other hand, is chasing its first ACC title since joining the conference and has positioned itself as a rising power under head coach Rhett Lashlee. The Mustangs boast a balanced team with a strong offense and a defense that has been stout in key moments, making them a worthy opponent for the Tigers.
What to Watch
The game will likely come down to execution in key moments. Clemson’s ability to unleash its full offensive potential against a ranked opponent will be crucial. Similarly, SMU will need to maintain its composure in the spotlight and continue its strong play on both sides of the ball.
With both teams eyeing a playoff berth and championship glory, the 2024 ACC Football Championship Game promises to deliver high-stakes drama and a thrilling battle between two of the nation’s best programs.