Austin, Texas – The Clemson Tigers faced off against the Texas Longhorns in the first round of the College Football Playoff (CFP) on Saturday evening, showcasing resilience and skill but ultimately losing the game 38-24 at the Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium.
The Tigers concluded their 2024 season with an impressive record, including 10 wins and an ACC championship. However, a lack of victories against top-ranked opponents raised questions about their readiness for elite competition.
Throughout the match, Clemson displayed their offensive capabilities, putting more total yards against Texas’s elite defense than any other team this season. Coach Dabo Swinney expressed pride in his team, stating, ‘We had every opportunity to win it.’ This assertion became apparent as the Tigers cut a significant deficit to just one touchdown in the closing minutes of the game, demonstrating their fighting spirit.
Critical Moments
Texas, ranked as having one of the top rosters nationally, showed their dominant form early in the game. The Longhorns jumped out to a 21-point lead, executing game-changing plays that underscored their title aspirations.
Despite the outcome, Clemson’s fight was commendable. Quarterback Cade Klubnik, together with standout performances from freshman wide receiver T.J. Moore, pressured Texas late in the game with notable passes that kept Clemson in contention.
In the end, it was two crucial defensive stops by Texas that sealed the Tigers’ fate. The Longhorns’ defense thwarted a potential scoring drive, forcing Clemson into a turnover on downs, allowing the home crowd to breathe easy as the clock wound down.
Looking Ahead
While Clemson’s 2024 journey ended prematurely, the team showcased many promising elements with a strong group of returning players. Looking ahead to next season, Swinney acknowledged the need for continuous improvement, noting, ‘We’ve got a chance to be a really, really good football team.’
The offseason will offer Clemson an opportunity to tackle defensive shortcomings and solidify their offensive prowess. The anticipation of the 2025 season looms as they seek to reclaim their status among college football’s elite.
The upcoming schedule features high-profile matchups, notably a non-conference game against LSU, setting the stage for an exciting year ahead.
