Amber Aniston • December 7, 2024

Clemson’s Dramatic Walk-Off Field Goal Secures 34-31 Victory Over SMU in ACC Title Game

The Clemson Tigers claimed their ninth ACC Championship title in a thrilling 34-31 victory over SMU, capped by a record-breaking 56-yard field goal from freshman kicker Nolan Hauser as time expired. The win, which took place at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, sealed Clemson’s return to the College Football Playoff for the first time since 2020. 



The game was a tale of two halves. Clemson dominated early, jumping to a 24-7 halftime lead behind quarterback Cade Klubnik’s precise passing and Bryant Wesco’s explosive performance. However, SMU mounted a relentless comeback in the second half, tying the game with just 16 seconds left on a 4-yard touchdown pass from Kevin Jennings to Roderick Daniels. Clemson’s special teams heroics, led by Hauser’s historic kick, ultimately dashed SMU’s playoff hopes and secured Clemson’s spot in the expanded postseason field. 


A Tale of Two Halves 

Clemson started the game with a bang, taking control early with three first-quarter touchdown passes from Klubnik. Two of those scores were to freshman sensation Bryant Wesco, who finished the night with 143 yards and two touchdowns on eight receptions. Tight end Jake Briningstool added two short touchdown catches, showcasing Clemson’s balanced attack. 


Clemson’s defense also made its presence felt in the first quarter, with edge rusher T.J. Parker recording a strip-sack on SMU’s opening drive. The Tigers capitalized on the turnover, extending their lead to 14-0 within the first five minutes of play. By halftime, Clemson had built a commanding 24-7 lead, seemingly in full control of the game. 


SMU’s Gritty Comeback 

The Mustangs refused to go quietly, rallying behind Kevin Jennings in the second half. Jennings, who threw for 310 yards and three touchdowns, orchestrated a remarkable fourth-quarter surge. SMU cut the lead to 31-24 with just under seven minutes remaining, thanks to a 20-yard touchdown pass to Matthew Hibner and a 46-yard field goal by Collin Rogers. 


With four minutes to play, SMU’s defense forced a critical stop, giving Jennings and the offense one last chance. The Mustangs methodically marched 79 yards in 16 plays, capping the drive with Daniels’ game-tying touchdown catch. The dramatic score sent SMU fans into a frenzy and appeared to set the stage for overtime. 


Hauser’s Heroics 

Clemson responded with poise in the final seconds. Adam Randall’s 41-yard kickoff return placed the Tigers near midfield, and Klubnik quickly connected with Antonio Williams for a 17-yard gain. With three seconds left, Dabo Swinney called upon Hauser to attempt a career-long 56-yard field goal. 


Hauser, who had missed a 44-yard attempt earlier in the game, delivered under pressure, sending the ball soaring through the uprights as time expired. The kick not only sealed Clemson’s victory but also set an ACC Championship record for the longest game-winning field goal. 


Postgame Reflections 

Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney praised his team’s resilience and Hauser’s composure, highlighting the significance of the win for the program. “This was a gutsy performance by everyone, and Hauser’s kick will go down as one of the greatest moments in Clemson history,” Swinney said. 


For SMU, the loss was a bitter pill to swallow. The Mustangs, in their first year in the ACC, showcased their offensive firepower and determination but fell just short of securing an automatic College Football Playoff bid. SMU head coach Rhett Lashlee emphasized his pride in the team’s effort, stating, “Our players left it all on the field tonight.” 


Looking Ahead 

Clemson’s victory secured a likely 11th or 12th seed in the expanded College Football Playoff, where the Tigers will face a challenging road to the national championship. The win marked Clemson’s ninth ACC title under Swinney and extended their streak of postseason success to 14 consecutive seasons. 


SMU’s playoff hopes now rest in the hands of the selection committee. Despite the loss, the Mustangs’ strong season and competitive performance against Clemson could keep them in contention for a playoff spot. Their fate will be revealed when the final rankings are announced on Sunday. 


A Game for the Ages 

Clemson’s 34-31 triumph over SMU was a fitting finale to the ACC Championship Game, combining dramatic momentum shifts, standout individual performances, and a historic finish. For Clemson, the victory reaffirms their status as a powerhouse program, while SMU’s valiant effort cements their arrival as a force to be reckoned with in the ACC. 

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