Five Things Texas Supporters Should Know About Clemson, Their Opponent in the CFP First Round
The College Football Playoff (CFP) is here, and for the Texas Longhorns, it’s time to face a formidable opponent in the first round – the Clemson Tigers. With both programs having storied histories and loaded rosters, this game promises to be a thrilling clash of two elite teams. For Longhorn fans looking to get a better understanding of the challenge ahead, here are five crucial things to know about Clemson heading into the CFP.
1. Clemson’s Championship Pedigree
Since the arrival of head coach Dabo Swinney in 2008, Clemson has firmly established itself as one of the premier programs in college football. The Tigers have claimed multiple national championships (2016 and 2018) and have made the College Football Playoff in all but one season since the CFP’s inception in 2014. Their consistent success speaks to the strong foundation of talent and leadership that Swinney has built over the years.
For Texas supporters, this pedigree is not just a fun fact — it’s a reality they need to be aware of. Clemson’s experience in high-pressure games, including their performances in the CFP, means they are not easily rattled. Their players are accustomed to big moments, and they know how to execute in the postseason. Texas will need to bring its A-game if it hopes to match the poise and efficiency that Clemson is known for in these types of games.
2. Clemson’s Defensive Line is a Force to Be Reckoned With
If there’s one area of the game that has defined Clemson football for the past decade, it’s their defense. Known for having one of the most dominant defensive lines in the country, the Tigers have consistently disrupted opposing offenses and shut down the run. This year is no different.
Clemson’s defensive line, featuring some of the most physically imposing athletes in college football, will be a serious test for Texas’ offensive line. Players like defensive tackle Tyler Davis and edge rusher Xavier Thomas have the ability to create chaos in the backfield, especially against a Longhorns offensive line that has struggled at times with pass protection this season. Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers will need to make quick decisions and keep the ball moving to avoid being pressured into mistakes.
For Texas to succeed in this matchup, the offensive line must do a better job of neutralizing Clemson’s defensive front. If they can provide Ewers with enough time to throw and give running back Jaydon Blue space to work with on the ground, the Longhorns will be able to move the ball effectively. However, if Clemson’s defensive line gets the better of the Longhorns up front, it could be a long night for the Texas offense.
3. Quarterback Cade Klubnik’s Development
Clemson’s offense in 2024 has relied heavily on the playmaking ability of sophomore quarterback Cade Klubnik. After taking over as the starter midway through his freshman season, Klubnik has continued to show why he was a five-star recruit coming out of high school. His ability to stretch the field with his arm and make plays with his legs has made him a dual-threat quarterback that defenses must account for at all times.
Klubnik is known for his cool demeanor under pressure, and his experience in big games will be crucial as Clemson heads into the CFP. While his decision-making has been a key strength throughout the season, he can also make mistakes if pressured. This is where Texas’ defense has an opportunity to shine. Defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski will need to dial up a mix of blitzes and coverage schemes to keep Klubnik uncomfortable in the pocket.
Texas will look to force Klubnik into mistakes by taking advantage of any inconsistency he may show under pressure. The Longhorns’ secondary, led by standout cornerbacks like Jahdae Barron and Ryan Watts, will have their hands full containing Clemson’s wide receivers, but they can certainly make an impact if Klubnik is forced into tough decisions.
4. Clemson’s Balanced Offense
While Clemson’s defense often steals the spotlight, their offense has been more than capable of keeping pace with the best teams in the country. A big part of their offensive success comes from a well-balanced attack that keeps opposing defenses on their toes. The running back duo of Will Shipley and Phil Mafah gives Clemson the ability to grind out tough yards on the ground while also posing a threat in the passing game.
Shipley, in particular, has been a major contributor both as a rusher and a pass-catcher out of the backfield. His ability to catch passes in space and make defenders miss has made him a nightmare for linebackers to cover. Mafah, on the other hand, is more of a power back who can wear down opposing defenses over time.
The Longhorns’ defense has been stout this season, but stopping Clemson’s run game will be no easy task. Texas’ defensive line, led by All-American candidate Byron Murphy, will need to be disciplined and aggressive to contain Shipley and Mafah. If they are unable to stop the run, it will open up play-action opportunities for Klubnik and allow Clemson’s offense to move down the field with ease.
Texas’ defensive backs will also need to be aware of Clemson’s receiving corps, which features standout wideouts like Antonio Williams and Cole Turner. Both receivers are capable of breaking big plays, so Texas’ secondary must remain disciplined and avoid giving up easy yardage through the air.
5. The Experience of Head Coach Dabo Swinney
When it comes to big games, few coaches are more seasoned than Dabo Swinney. As the architect of Clemson’s rise to prominence over the last 15 years, Swinney has cultivated a culture of excellence that has translated into consistent postseason success. With two national championships under his belt, Swinney knows what it takes to guide a team through the pressure cooker of the College Football Playoff.
Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian has done an excellent job in building a competitive program, but he lacks the postseason experience that Swinney brings to the table. While Sarkisian has been successful in developing a potent offense at Texas, Swinney’s experience in managing games of this magnitude gives Clemson an advantage when it comes to in-game adjustments and keeping the team focused.
Swinney’s ability to motivate his players and get them to perform in big moments will be crucial as Clemson looks to advance through the CFP. Texas supporters should be aware that Swinney’s calm and calculated approach in big games could give Clemson the edge, especially in tight situations.
What Texas Fans Should Expect
Texas Longhorns supporters should expect a tightly contested matchup when they face off against Clemson in the CFP first round. Clemson’s championship pedigree, dominant defensive line, and balanced offense will make them a formidable opponent. However, Texas is a talented team with playmakers of its own, and the Longhorns will be able to compete if they execute well on both sides of the ball.
For Texas to win, they must contain Clemson’s running game, disrupt Cade Klubnik’s rhythm, and capitalize on any mistakes made by the Tigers’ offense. On offense, the Longhorns must keep Quinn Ewers upright against Clemson’s pass rush and create mismatches in the passing game. If Texas can do these things, they have a good chance of advancing to the next round of the CFP.
In the end, the game will come down to which team executes better under pressure. Clemson’s experience and talent make them a tough opponent, but Texas has shown throughout the season that they are more than capable of competing at the highest level.