Texas vs. Clemson: Predictions, Odds for College Football Playoff First-Round Game
As the 2024 College Football Playoff (CFP) season rolls into the first round, the Texas Longhorns will face off against the Clemson Tigers in what promises to be an exciting and high-stakes battle. Both teams come into the game with strong resumes, solid regular-season performances, and a fanbase hungry for a national title. Texas is looking to prove itself among the elite, while Clemson is aiming to reclaim its place at the top of college football after a few years of retooling.
This matchup will take place at a neutral location, with both programs having earned their spot through impressive regular-season campaigns. While many have their eyes set on the top-tier programs, Texas and Clemson could be the perfect underdogs to emerge as serious contenders in the College Football Playoff. Let’s break down the key factors that will influence the game, the odds, and ultimately, a prediction for how it will unfold.
Texas Longhorns: A New Era of Championship Hope
Record and Key Players:
The Texas Longhorns have surged in recent years under head coach Steve Sarkisian, and the 2024 season has been no exception. With a 12-1 record, the Longhorns secured a spot in the CFP, powered by an explosive offense and a disciplined defense. The team’s only loss came early in the season, but since then, Texas has shown resilience and improved play in every aspect of the game.
A key player to watch is quarterback Quinn Ewers, who has proven to be one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in college football. Ewers has an impressive arm, able to stretch the field with deep passes, and has shown the ability to make quick decisions under pressure. His connection with wide receivers Xavier Worthy and Adonai Mitchell has been a game-changer for Texas this season. Worthy, a deep threat with blazing speed, will be crucial for stretching Clemson’s defense and creating mismatches in the secondary.
On the defensive side of the ball, linebacker Jalen Ford has been a standout, providing leadership and playmaking ability. Texas has a well-balanced defense, ranking among the top teams in the nation in both run defense and pass defense, thanks to key players like Ford and safety Jerrin Thompson.
Texas Strengths:
- Dynamic Offense: Texas’ offense is multifaceted, with an explosive passing game and a solid rushing attack. Running back Jonathan Brooks has provided balance to the offense, allowing the Longhorns to keep opposing defenses on their toes.
- Balanced Defense: Texas’ defense has been stingy, ranking in the top 10 in multiple categories. They excel at limiting big plays and force turnovers when needed most.
- Special Teams: Special teams play has been solid, with a reliable kicker and strong return game.
Texas Weaknesses:
- Inexperienced Playoff Team: While Texas has a solid record, they are relatively new to the College Football Playoff. The nerves and pressure of playing in such a high-stakes environment could impact the team’s performance, especially if Clemson gets off to a hot start.
- O-Line Depth: While the offensive line has been solid this year, depth remains a concern, particularly against elite defensive lines like Clemson’s. The Longhorns will need to protect Ewers against Clemson’s aggressive pass rush.
Clemson Tigers: A Return to Glory?
Record and Key Players:
The Clemson Tigers come into the 2024 College Football Playoff with a record of 11-2. After a few seasons of rebuilding and some inconsistency in their quarterback play, Clemson has found its rhythm again. Under head coach Dabo Swinney, the Tigers are looking to reclaim their spot as one of college football’s premier programs, following a run of dominance in the previous decade that saw multiple national championships.
Clemson’s biggest asset is its defense, which is once again among the best in the nation. The Tigers have a ferocious defensive line led by standout edge rusher Cade Denhoff, who has been a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks. In the secondary, Clemson boasts cornerback Nate Wiggins, who has proven to be a ball-hawking presence, capable of shutting down top wide receivers.
On offense, quarterback Cade Klubnik has shown growth in his second season as a starter. While not as flashy as some other top quarterbacks, Klubnik is a smart, efficient player who doesn’t make many mistakes. His ability to manage the game and connect with star wide receiver Antonio Williams will be key against Texas’ defense. Running back Will Shipley, one of the top playmakers in the country, will be crucial in both the running and passing game.
Clemson Strengths:
- Elite Defense: Clemson’s defensive front is one of the most talented in the country, and they excel at generating pressure and stuffing the run. They have the ability to dominate the line of scrimmage and make life difficult for opposing quarterbacks.
- Coaching Experience: Dabo Swinney has been in the CFP multiple times and knows what it takes to get his team to the final stages of the postseason. His experience in big games will help the Tigers manage the high-pressure environment.
- Special Teams and Field Position: Clemson has been efficient in the special teams department, often gaining advantageous field position that allows the offense to operate more effectively.
Clemson Weaknesses:
- Inconsistent Quarterback Play: While Klubnik has improved, his consistency remains a question mark. Against a Texas defense that can force turnovers, Klubnik will need to avoid costly mistakes.
- Lack of Offensive Explosiveness: Compared to some of the other top teams in the playoff, Clemson’s offense has struggled to be explosive this season. They will need to find ways to sustain drives and score efficiently against Texas’ tough defense.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Texas’ Offensive Line vs. Clemson’s Defensive Line: Texas has a solid offensive line, but Clemson’s defensive line is one of the most fearsome in college football. This battle in the trenches will be pivotal in determining how much time Ewers has in the pocket to make plays.
- Quinn Ewers vs. Nate Wiggins: Ewers will need to be at his best against a secondary that can shut down opposing pass games. Wiggins, as a playmaker in the secondary, will be key to keeping Texas’ passing game in check.
- Will Shipley vs. Texas’ Run Defense: Shipley is one of the top running backs in the nation, and he will need to have a strong game to balance Clemson’s offensive attack. Texas has a stout run defense, but Shipley’s ability to break tackles and gain yards after contact will be crucial.
- Texas’ Special Teams vs. Clemson’s Field Position Game: Special teams could play a crucial role in determining who controls field position. Look for both teams to capitalize on any mistakes or breakdowns in the special teams department.
Predictions and Odds
Current Odds:
- Texas -2.5
- Over/Under: 47.5 points
Both teams come into this game with strengths and weaknesses, but Texas is the slight favorite in this matchup, thanks to their high-powered offense and balanced defense. The oddsmakers are predicting a close game, and this reflects the fact that both teams have the tools to win but also areas of vulnerability that could be exploited.
Predictions:
- Texas Wins 24-21: Texas’ offense, led by Quinn Ewers, will find enough success against Clemson’s defense, but it won’t be easy. The Longhorns’ defense will also step up, slowing down Will Shipley and keeping Cade Klubnik from getting into a rhythm. This will be a tight, low-scoring affair, with Texas edging out Clemson by a narrow margin.
- Clemson Wins 20-17: Clemson’s defense will show up in a big way, making it difficult for Ewers to find rhythm in the passing game. The Tigers’ defense will sack Ewers multiple times, forcing turnovers and providing excellent field position for their offense. Shipley will be the workhorse, helping Clemson move the ball and control the clock to secure a victory in a defensive slugfest.
