**USA TODAY Sports Analysts Forecast the Outcome of the Historic CFP Battle Between Clemson and Texas**
The 2024 College Football Playoff (CFP) has generated a great deal of excitement, as it marks the first-ever meeting between two of college football’s most storied programs: the Clemson Tigers and the Texas Longhorns. Both teams have rich histories, passionate fanbases, and rosters packed with NFL-caliber talent. As the College Football Playoff semifinals draw near, the question on everyone’s mind is: who will emerge victorious in this epic showdown?
USA TODAY Sports analysts have offered their expert opinions on what fans can expect in this historic battle, analyzing the strengths and weaknesses of both teams and breaking down key matchups. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the factors that could influence the outcome of the game, providing insight into how each team stacks up and where the game could be won or lost.
### A Historic Matchup
The College Football Playoff, now in its 11th season, has seen numerous powerhouses clash on its biggest stage. However, the upcoming semifinal between Clemson and Texas is truly special. While both programs have had their fair share of success, this is the first time these two football giants will face off in a postseason game. For Clemson, the Tigers are no strangers to the CFP, having won two national titles since 2016, while Texas is seeking its first appearance in a national championship game since 2009. The narrative surrounding this game is rich with history, potential, and the possibility of a new era of dominance in college football.
### The Clemson Tigers: Defensive Powerhouses and Offensive Precision
Clemson enters the game as one of the most balanced teams in the country. Head coach Dabo Swinney has built a program that is known for its suffocating defense and explosive offense, and the 2024 squad is no different. The Tigers finished the regular season with a 12-1 record, earning their place in the CFP with impressive wins over some of the top teams in the country.
**Offense:**
Clemson’s offense is led by quarterback Cade Klubnik, who has had a breakout sophomore season. Klubnik is a dual-threat signal caller who is just as capable of making plays with his arm as he is with his legs. He’s an efficient passer, having thrown for over 3,000 yards with 30 touchdown passes, but he can also extend plays with his mobility when the pocket breaks down. Klubnik’s ability to improvise is a critical weapon, particularly against a Texas defense that has been strong but prone to occasional lapses.
Running back Will Shipley, one of the best in college football, has been a cornerstone of Clemson’s offense. Shipley’s ability to make defenders miss, paired with his downhill running style, makes him a significant threat in both the running and passing games. Texas will need to focus on containing Shipley, as he has the ability to turn the game in a hurry with one big play.
**Defense:**
Clemson’s defense is perhaps the most formidable unit in college football this season. Led by defensive coordinator Wes Goodwin, the Tigers have been relentless all year. The defensive line, featuring future NFL talent like Myles Murphy and Bryan Bresee, is one of the best in the nation at generating pressure on the quarterback. Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers will be under constant duress, and the Longhorns’ offensive line will have to rise to the occasion to protect their signal caller.
The linebacking corps, led by Barrett Carter and Jeremiah Trotter Jr., is fast and instinctive, capable of stopping the run and dropping back into coverage. The Tigers’ secondary is also solid, with a number of ball hawks who can make plays on the ball. Clemson’s defense is not just about raw talent; it’s about discipline, toughness, and an ability to shut down opposing offenses when it matters most. If Texas struggles to establish any rhythm on offense, the Tigers could take control early.
### The Texas Longhorns: A Resurgent Program Poised for Glory
Texas has been one of college football’s most iconic programs, but it has endured a lengthy drought since its last national championship in 2005. However, under head coach Steve Sarkisian, the Longhorns are back at the forefront of college football, with a 12-1 record this season and a well-rounded team that boasts explosive playmakers on both sides of the ball.
**Offense:**
Quarterback Quinn Ewers has been the focal point of Texas’ offensive resurgence. After a rocky start to his college career, Ewers has found his stride, showcasing incredible arm strength, accuracy, and poise. In 2024, he threw for over 3,500 yards, with 32 touchdowns and only eight interceptions. His connection with star wide receiver Xavier Worthy has been a major factor in the Longhorns’ success, with Worthy making highlight-reel catches and consistently stretching the field.
Texas also features a dynamic rushing attack led by running back Bijan Robinson, one of the most electrifying backs in college football. Robinson has been a bell cow for the Longhorns, consistently racking up yards both inside and outside the tackles. He will be a critical weapon in this game, as controlling the clock and maintaining a balanced offensive attack will be essential for Texas to have success against Clemson’s defense.
**Defense:**
On the other side of the ball, Texas has shown significant improvement under defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski. The Longhorns’ defense is tough and disciplined, led by defensive end Ovie Oghoufo and linebacker Jalen Ford, two players who can make an impact in both the run and pass game. Texas is known for its aggressive style of play, often bringing pressure from multiple angles, which could challenge Clemson’s offensive line.
In the secondary, Texas boasts cornerbacks like Ryan Watts and Ja’Quinden Jackson, who can match up well with Clemson’s talented wide receivers. The key for the Longhorns will be to contain Clemson’s explosive passing game and prevent Klubnik from finding his rhythm. If Texas can disrupt Klubnik’s timing and force him into bad decisions, they will have a good chance to keep the game close.
### Key Matchups to Watch
1. **Clemson’s Defensive Line vs. Texas’ Offensive Line:**
The battle in the trenches will be critical. Clemson’s defensive line is one of the best in the country, and they will be looking to disrupt Texas’ offensive flow early. Texas’ offensive line has been solid this season, but they will be facing one of the toughest defensive fronts in college football.
2. **Cade Klubnik vs. Quinn Ewers:**
The quarterback matchup is always crucial, and in this game, it’s no different. Both Klubnik and Ewers are future NFL talents, but each will face challenges from the opposing defense. Klubnik’s ability to make plays on the run and his leadership could be the difference, while Ewers’ arm strength and ability to stretch the field could open up big plays for Texas.
3. **Bijan Robinson vs. Clemson’s Front Seven:**
Robinson is one of the most dynamic running backs in college football, and he’ll need to have a strong game for Texas to control the clock and keep Clemson’s defense honest. However, Clemson’s front seven is known for shutting down the run, so this matchup will be a key battleground.
