Official announcement from the College Football Playoff selection committee

Clemson Wins ACC Title 34-31 Over SMU with Last-Second 55-Yard Field Goal After SMU's 17-Point Comeback

Dec 8, 2024, 04:32 AM

Clemson clinched the ACC Championship title with a thrilling 34-31 victory over SMU. Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik delivered an impressive performance, completing 24 of 41 passes for 260 yards and four touchdowns, earning him the ACC Championship Game MVP award for the second time. Clemson took an early lead, ending the first quarter up 21-7. Despite trailing by 17 points in the fourth quarter, SMU mounted a remarkable comeback, scoring 17 unanswered points to tie the game at 31 with just 16 seconds remaining. The game included controversial penalties, notably a roughing the passer call against SMU that extended a Clemson drive resulting in a touchdown. With the game tied, Clemson sealed the win with a 55-yard field goal as time expired. The result has sparked debate over whether SMU or Alabama should receive the final spot in the College Football Playoff, with the CFP selection committee facing a difficult decision.