Texas vs. Clemson: Predictions, Odds for College Football Playoff First-Round Matchup

The 2024 College Football Playoff (CFP) is set to deliver another thrilling slate of games, and one of the most anticipated matchups features the No. 3 seed Texas Longhorns taking on the No. 6 seed Clemson Tigers. Both teams have experienced remarkable seasons, filled with ups and downs, but they’ve earned their spots in the first round of the playoff with dominant performances in their respective conferences. With a berth in the CFP semifinals on the line, here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the game, including predictions, odds, and what fans can expect when these two powerhouse programs face off.

Texas Longhorns: Road to the Playoff

Texas entered the 2024 season with high expectations under head coach Steve Sarkisian. The Longhorns, who had been building momentum over the past few years, were widely considered a national title contender, and they delivered on that promise. A high-octane offense, led by quarterback Quinn Ewers and an explosive group of playmakers, helped Texas soar to an 11-1 record, with their only loss coming at the hands of rival Oklahoma in a closely contested Red River Showdown.

The Longhorns’ offense has been a well-balanced force, averaging over 450 yards per game, with Ewers, a Heisman contender, tossing for over 3,500 yards and 30 touchdowns. His connection with playmakers like Xavier Worthy, a deep-threat receiver, and Bijan Robinson, the talented running back who was drafted in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, created an offense that could challenge any defense.

Defensively, Texas has been solid, led by edge rusher Ethan Burke and linebacker Jaylan Ford. The Longhorns’ defense is fast, aggressive, and capable of making big plays, which could be key against a Clemson offense that can be inconsistent at times.

Clemson Tigers: A Resilient Journey

Clemson, under head coach Dabo Swinney, has been one of the most consistent programs in the nation over the last decade. However, 2024 was a year filled with questions about whether the Tigers could still compete at the highest level after losing several key players to the NFL. Despite some growing pains, Clemson managed to overcome its early-season struggles and secured a 10-2 record, earning an at-large bid to the College Football Playoff.

Clemson’s offense is powered by sophomore quarterback Cade Klubnik, who took over the starting job after an up-and-down freshman year in 2023. Klubnik has shown flashes of brilliance, throwing for over 3,000 yards and 28 touchdowns, but he has also had his share of inconsistencies. Still, his ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs keeps defenses on their toes.

The Tigers also feature a dynamic running back in Will Shipley, who has been one of the best in college football this season, contributing both in the running game and in the passing game as a receiving threat out of the backfield. Shipley’s ability to control the clock and keep Texas’ high-powered offense off the field will be vital in this matchup.

Defensively, Clemson remains one of the toughest teams to score on. Led by linebacker Barrett Carter and defensive end Peter Woods, the Tigers have one of the most formidable defenses in the country. With a strong defensive line and a secondary that can lock down opposing receivers, Clemson has the tools to slow down Texas’ explosive offense.

Matchup Breakdown

Offensive Firepower: The Longhorns boast one of the most potent offenses in the country, while Clemson’s offense has been a bit more up-and-down. However, Clemson has the ability to control the clock with its running game, led by Shipley, and the versatility of Klubnik gives the Tigers the tools to keep the defense guessing. Texas’ offense, on the other hand, is dynamic, with Ewers capable of making every throw on the field and a talented group of wide receivers, including Worthy and Jordan Whittington, who can stretch the field. The key for Clemson will be keeping Ewers under pressure and limiting big plays, while Texas must find a way to stop Shipley and force Klubnik into mistakes.

Defensive Matchup: Texas has been solid defensively, but Clemson’s defense is built to stop teams like the Longhorns. The Tigers have one of the best front sevens in the country, and they will need to disrupt the rhythm of Ewers early in the game. If they can rattle him and force him to make bad decisions, they’ll have a chance to keep the score low. For Texas, containing Shipley will be the top priority. Clemson’s offense relies on the running game, and if the Tigers can establish the run, it will open up play-action opportunities for Klubnik.

Special Teams: Special teams could play a pivotal role in this game. Texas has been solid in the kicking game, and kicker Burt Lacy has been reliable all season. However, Clemson has one of the most dangerous return men in the country in Antonio Williams, who could flip the field and change the momentum with a big return. Texas will need to be disciplined in coverage and make sure they don’t give up easy points.

Predictions & Odds

Prediction: This game promises to be a battle of styles. Texas will look to strike quickly through the air, utilizing the arm of Quinn Ewers and the speed of their receivers, while Clemson will try to control the game with its running attack and a strong defense. Ultimately, Texas’ high-powered offense is likely to be too much for Clemson to handle, especially if the Tigers cannot consistently put pressure on Ewers. Texas has the depth and talent across the board to outlast Clemson in a close game. Expect a score of Texas 31, Clemson 24.

Odds: As of the latest projections, Texas enters this matchup as a 7-point favorite, with an over/under of 57.5 points. This reflects the expectation that the Longhorns’ offense will be able to score against Clemson’s defense, but the Tigers’ defensive prowess should keep the game from becoming a blowout. The betting line suggests that this will be a competitive contest, but Texas is favored to advance to the CFP semifinals.