Clemson hosts SMU in a dramatic rematch of the 2024 ACC Championship. From Dabo Swinney's coaching milestones to SMU's Death Valley debut, here are 5 things to watch for in this pivotal ACC showdown.
1. The Championship Rematch
Saturday’s contest is a rematch of the thrilling 2024 ACC Championship Game in Charlotte. In that instant classic, Clemson stormed to a 24-7 halftime lead after scoring touchdowns on its first three possessions. However, a relentless SMU comeback tied the game at 31-31 with only 16 seconds left. The game appeared destined for overtime until a 41-yard kickoff return by Adam Randall and a quick 17-yard pass from quarterback Cade Klubnik to Antonio Williams set up kicker Nolan Hauser for a walk-off 56-yard field goal as time expired.