The Clemson Tigers are set to face the SMU Mustangs in a highly anticipated ACC Championship Game on Saturday. Here’s our preview, which includes a prediction, using the best college football odds from the top sportsbooks.
NCAAF Pick: Clemson +2.5 (-110) at Caesars Sportsbook (check our Caesars Sportsbook Review)
Clemson vs. SMU
Saturday, December 07, 2024 – 08:00 PM ET at Bank of America Stadium
Clemson’s Loss at South Carolina
Clemson suffered a 17-14 setback against South Carolina last Saturday, faltering in a fourth quarter where the Gamecocks outscored them 10-0. Despite a late-game drive reaching the South Carolina 18-yard line with 16 seconds left, Cade Klubnik’s pass was intercepted by Demetrius Knight Jr., ending Clemson’s hopes.
Klubnik performed admirably overall, completing 24 of 36 passes for 280 yards. While he didn’t record a passing touchdown, he made his presence felt on the ground with 62 rushing yards and two scores on 10 carries. Phil Mafah contributed 66 yards on 20 carries, while Antonio Williams led the receivers with eight catches for 99 yards.
However, costly mistakes plagued Clemson, and their defense struggled to contain LaNorris Sellers. Despite the loss, Clemson secured a berth in the ACC Championship Game thanks to Miami’s 42-38 loss to Syracuse, giving the Tigers a shot at their eighth ACC title in the last decade.
SMU’s Dominant Win Over California
SMU closed out the regular season in style, cruising to a 38-6 victory against California on Saturday. The Mustangs relied on the brilliance of Brashard Smith, who totaled 134 yards (68 rushing, 66 receiving) and scored two touchdowns, one on the ground and one through the air. Quarterback Kevin Jennings added 225 passing yards and two touchdown passes to the effort.
The Mustangs took control early, scoring touchdowns on three straight drives to build a commanding 21-0 lead. Derrick McFall’s eight-yard rushing score highlighted the early dominance. SMU finished with 415 total yards, continuing their streak of 17 consecutive conference wins, which dates back to their time in the AAC before joining the ACC.
Keys to the Game
Klubnik remains Clemson’s offensive engine, balancing his passing precision and rushing ability. Against South Carolina, he racked up 280 passing yards but relied on his legs for two touchdowns.
SMU’s defense must prioritize containing Klubnik’s mobility while forcing him into quick decisions. If Klubnik finds time to exploit the secondary, Clemson’s offense could dictate the pace.
Smith has been a dynamic playmaker for SMU, combining speed and versatility to challenge opposing defenses. With 134 all-purpose yards against California, he’s a threat in both the run and pass game.
Clemson, having struggled to limit Sellers’ impact last week, must find ways to neutralize Smith in open space. Their front seven will need to disrupt SMU’s rhythm to slow the Mustangs’ offense.
Mafah’s physical running style (66 yards on 20 carries against South Carolina) is central to Clemson’s ability to control the game. By establishing the ground game, the Tigers can keep SMU’s high-octane offense off the field. SMU, though efficient defensively against California, could be vulnerable if Clemson’s offensive line dominates the trenches.
Both teams have displayed a penchant for errors in key moments. Clemson’s late-game interception against South Carolina and SMU’s reliance on momentum-driven offense suggest that turnovers and field position will be pivotal. Whichever team better capitalizes on miscues will likely gain the upper hand.
NCAAF Pick
This matchup promises to be a clash of Clemson’s grind-it-out style against SMU’s explosive offense. Clemson’s defensive discipline and experience in high-pressure games should help them contain SMU’s playmakers just enough to stay in the game and possibly edge out a victory.
NCAAF Pick: Clemson +2.5 (-110) at Caesars Sportsbook
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