Final Score and Highlights: Texas Outlasts Clemson in CFP First Round

On Saturday in Austin, Texas, the final playoff spot for the College Football Playoff quarterfinals was claimed.

And the spot goes to No. 5 Texas.

The Longhorns (12-2) showcased their strength at home, defeating No. 12 Clemson (10-4) with a score of 38-24 at DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium. This marked the first time either team played a postseason game on campus.

Catch the action of Texas vs. Clemson live with Sling TV

With this first-round victory, Texas is set to face No. 4 Arizona State in the CFP quarterfinals. The matchup will take place at the Peach Bowl on New Year’s Day at 1 p.m. ET in Atlanta.

Steve Sarkisian’s squad excelled in the play along the line of scrimmage throughout the afternoon against Dabo Swinney’s team. Texas accumulated a total of 292 rushing yards, with Jaydon Blue contributing 146 of them.

The Longhorns’ ground game was particularly effective in the first half, resulting in three of their four touchdowns during that period. By halftime, Texas held a commanding 28-10 lead, marking the most points Clemson’s defense had surrendered in a first half all season.

Though Clemson rallied in the second half and closed the gap to seven points in the fourth quarter, it wasn’t sufficient to overcome Texas. The Tigers faced setbacks during key moments: one being a 77-yard touchdown run by Blue; another was Texas’s defense making a critical stand near the goal line late in the game after the Tigers had moved the ball down the field.

Quinn Ewers, despite dealing with a high-ankle sprain, had a solid performance against Clemson’s defense, completing 17 of 24 passes for 202 yards, along with one touchdown and one interception.

Here’s a recap of the score, updates, and highlights from Saturday’s College Football Playoff first-round matchup between Texas and Clemson:

Score Updates for Texas vs. Clemson

This section will be updated upon game commencement.

TEAMS	1Q	2Q	3Q	4Q	FINAL
Clemson	7	3	7	7	24
Texas	7	21	3	7	38

Updates on the CFP Texas vs. Clemson Game

(This section will be refreshed with new details)

Final Score: Texas 38, Clemson 24

Texas Advances to CFP Quarterfinals, Defeating Clemson

Texas has successfully moved on to the CFP quarterfinals and will play against No. 4 Arizona State in the Peach Bowl after overcoming No. 12 Clemson with a score of 38-24. The initial 28-10 lead at halftime proved too substantial for Clemson to surmount, even with a strong second half.

Two Minute Warning: Texas Leads Clemson 38-24

With just two minutes remaining, Texas holds a 38-24 advantage over Clemson, inching closer to securing their CFP quarterfinal spot against Arizona State. Texas faces a second-and-5 situation at the Clemson 44-yard line.

Texas Defense Stuffs Clemson’s Drive

Clemson was making progress, but the Texas defense executed a crucial goal-line stand, as Bill Norton and Barryn Sorrell stopped Keith Adams Jr. for no yard gain to force a turnover on downs.

Clemson Calls Timeout, Offense Pressures Texas

Determined not to concede, Clemson’s Cade Klubnik scrambled up the middle for a 4-yard gain, setting up a third-and-1 situation on the Longhorns’ 1-yard line. Dabo Swinney opted for a timeout to strategize Clemson’s next move.

Jaydon Blue Breaks Free for 77-Yard Touchdown

In a significant play, Jaydon Blue dashed down the left side for a 77-yard touchdown, reclaiming momentum for Texas.

This score marked his second of the game, extending Texas’s lead to 38-24 with 10:48 still left in the fourth quarter.

Texas’s rushing total now stands at 265 yards for the game, while Clemson has been held to just 73.

Cade Klubnik Throws TD Pass for Clemson

On a crucial fourth-and-6 at the Texas 7-yard line, Cade Klubnik found T.J. Moore open for a touchdown pass. This swift and well-executed play allowed Clemson to close the gap, making the score 31-24 in favor of Texas with 11:43 remaining in the fourth quarter.

Clemson’s Offense Gains Momentum

In a late-game push, Dabo Swinney’s team begins the fourth quarter with a second-and-10 at Texas’s 22-yard line. On the first play of the fourth quarter, Antonio Williams pulled in a remarkable catch from Cade Klubnik, securing a first down.

Third Quarter: Texas 31, Clemson 17

Clemson Stops Texas on Fourth Down

Following a 3-yard run by Jaydon Blue, Texas attempts a risky fourth-and-2 to keep the clock running. Unfortunately for the Longhorns, Quinn Ewers fails to connect with Matthew Golden, wasting a crucial opportunity.

This stop is significant for Clemson, who regains possession at their own 36-yard line.

Cade Klubnik Connects with Jarvis Green for a Touchdown

At DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium, Cade Klubnik makes an important play, throwing a 25-yard touchdown pass to Jarvis Green, narrowing the gap to 31-17.

This marks the first career touchdown reception for Green and Klubnik’s second touchdown pass of the day, a notable achievement considering Texas’ defense had allowed only four passing touchdowns before this game.

Texas Punts the Ball

Quinn Ewers suffers two back-to-back incomplete passes, leading to Texas’ initial three-and-out on offense. The Longhorns must wait for their next opportunity to increase their lead.

Texas Increases Lead with Field Goal

Texas extends their lead to 31-10 with a 22-yard field goal by Bert Auburn, placing Clemson three touchdowns behind in the third quarter.

The Longhorns could not fully capitalize on a red zone opportunity due to a defensive pass interference penalty against Avieon Terrell of Clemson but still walked away with points.

Halftime Score: Texas 28, Clemson 10

Texas Leads Clemson 28-10 at the Half

The first half of Saturday’s CFP first-round matchup was dominated by Texas, who leads Clemson 28-10 as they head to the locker room. The Longhorns outperformed the Tigers offensively, racking up 289 yards compared to Clemson’s 182, with 148 of those yards coming from rushing plays.

Texas will receive the ball to start the second half.

Texas Scores a Touchdown Before Halftime

Texas regains momentum as Quinn Ewers throws a perfectly placed pass to tight end Gunnar Helm at the back of the end zone for a touchdown. This marks Ewers’ 26th touchdown pass of the season, as he finishes 11 of 14 with 141 yards, a touchdown, and one interception.

With only 28 seconds left in the half, Texas increases their lead to 28-10 over Clemson.

Clemson Kicks a Field Goal to Narrow Texas Lead

After Cade Klubnik’s third-and-5 pass to Bryant Wesco Jr. falls short, Clemson brings out the field goal unit. Nolan Hauser successfully kicks a 32-yard field goal, reducing Clemson’s deficit to 21-10 with 1:33 left in the first half.

R.J. Mickens Secures an Interception for Clemson

In the midst of offensive struggles, Clemson’s defense provides a critical boost. R.J. Mickens intercepts Quinn Ewers at Texas’ 45-yard line on second-and-16, aiming to score but the play is brought back due to a penalty for a blindside block by Tre Williams.

Clemson now has the ball with two minutes left in the first half at their own 46-yard line.

Cade Klubnik Picked Off on a Tipped Pass

Clemson’s offensive issues persist as Cade Klubnik throws a pass that is deflected and intercepted deep in Texas territory. The meant pass to Antonio Williams is tipped by Barryn Sorrell, making it an easy catch for Colin Simmons. Texas gains possession at Clemson’s 26-yard line.

Texas Adds to Their Lead with a Rushing Touchdown

Sticking with a strong rushing strategy, Texas scores their third rushing touchdown of the first half, courtesy of a 16-yard run by Quintrevion Wisner, marking his second score of the day.

In total, Texas amassed 122 rushing yards in the first half on 19 carries, dominating over Clemson’s 45 rushing yards from nine carries. The Longhorns’ offensive line has been impressive.

Quinn Ewers Connects with Matthew Golden for a Key Reception

Matthew Golden keeps coming through for Texas, catching a 43-yard pass from Quinn Ewers under pressure from Clemson’s defense. Ewers has started the game strong, going 7 for 7 for 100 yards.

Adam Randall Makes a Big Play for Clemson

Clemson’s offensive coordinator Garrett Riley draws upon a successful Texas play, and it pays off as Adam Randall delivers a 41-yard run up the middle. Afterward, Clemson uses their second timeout of the half when Cade Klubnik is sacked for a 10-yard loss, leaving them in a tough third-and-16 situation at Texas’ 46-yard line.

Jaydon Blue Extends Texas Lead with a Powerful Run

Texas relies heavily on its solid offensive line and rushing game as running back Jaydon Blue finds a massive opening and dashes for a 38-yard touchdown. Notably, ten of the last eleven plays called by Steve Sarkisian have been runs. The Longhorns take a 14-7 lead with 12:49 left in the first half.

Clemson Punts the Ball

Dabo Swinney decides to punt on fourth-and-1. However, Clemson fails to flip the field as Aidan Swanson’s punt only travels to Texas’ 35-yard line.

First Quarter: Clemson 7, Texas 7

Clemson Faces a Tough Decision on Fourth Down at the Start of the Second Quarter

As the first quarter ends in a tie at 7-7, Clemson is confronted with a crucial decision: should they go for it on fourth-and-1 at their 34-yard line or choose to punt? A strong effort from Texas’ Anthony Hill Jr. has pushed Clemson’s Phil Mafah out of bounds just short of the first down on a screen pass from Cade Klubnik.

Texas Scores a Touchdown

After converting on fourth-and-1 at the Clemson 4-yard line, Texas levels the score at 7-7 with a 3-yard run up the middle from running back Quintrevion Wisner. This is a promising start for the Longhorns’ rushing attack, which has struggled in previous weeks.

Wisner made four attempts for a total of 32 rushing yards during Texas’ initial possession, highlighted by a notable 22-yard run along the right sideline.

Cade Klubnik scores on opening drive for Clemson

Cade Klubnik connects with Antonio Williams through a quick pass across the field for a 22-yard touchdown. Klubnik demonstrated impressive composure and confidence, leading the Tigers through a 12-play drive that lasted nearly seven minutes.

After Nolan Hauser successfully kicked the extra point, Clemson surged ahead 7-0 against Texas in the first quarter of Saturday’s College Football Playoff first-round matchup.

Clemson’s offensive momentum

The Tigers are showing strong offensive intent as Cade Klubnik makes a scramble to the left for a crucial first down, crossing into Texas territory. So far, Klubnik has completed 3 out of 4 passes for a total of 23 yards.

Before the game begins

Texas won the coin toss against Clemson in CFP

The Longhorns have won the coin toss and opted to defer their kickoff until the second half. Clemson and Cade Klubnik will take the field first in this third first-round game of the CFP.

Dabo Swinney and Matthew McConaughey encounter each other

<p”Timing is everything. Dabo Swinney has a surprise meeting with famous Texas alum Matthew McConaughey near the 30-yard line.

After the announcement that the Tigers would be heading to Texas for their first-round game, Swinney expressed his excitement during a press conference, saying, “I’m gonna meet Matthew McConaughey!” McConaughey is affectionately recognized as the “Minister of Culture” for the Longhorns and is a familiar face at Texas games.

Cade Klubnik warms up for homecoming

Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik has stepped onto the field at DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium for warmups. The upcoming game against Texas is particularly special for Klubnik, who hails from Austin and is a Westlake High School alumnus.

Isaiah Bond in street clothes before game vs Clemson

David Eckert from the Austin American-Statesman reports that Texas wide receiver Isaiah Bond is observing warmups from the sidelines in casual attire. He is managing a high-ankle sprain.

Bevo returns to the sidelines at Texas

After missing the SEC championship game in Atlanta, Texas’ mascot Bevo has made a comeback to the sidelines for the CFP first-round game against Clemson as he enters the stadium.

Will Isaiah Bond play against Clemson today?

ESPN’s Pete Thamel mentioned on “College GameDay” earlier today that Texas wide receiver Isaiah Bond is “unlikely to participate” in the matchup against Clemson. Bond, who is projected to be a first-round pick in the NFL draft, is nursing a high ankle sprain and might attempt to warm up today, as reported by Thamel.

Texas’ history in College Football Playoff

Today’s game against Clemson marks only the second time Texas has participated in the College Football Playoff. Their first appearance was last year when they faced off against Washington in the Sugar Bowl and lost 37-31 to the eventual national runners-up.

Dabo Swinney’s CFP record

With Saturday’s game against Texas, Clemson coach Dabo Swinney stands at 6-4 in the College Football Playoff, including two national championship titles. He is just one victory shy of joining the elite company of former Alabama coach Nick Saban, becoming one of the only two coaches to achieve at least seven CFP wins.

Click here for more insights into Swinney’s accomplishments and legacy in the College Football Playoff.

Texas vs Clemson kickoff time

Date: Saturday, December 21
Time: 4 p.m. ET
Location: DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium (Austin, Texas)

The game between Texas and Clemson will begin at 4 p.m. ET on Saturday, December 21, from DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Texas.

What channel is the Texas vs Clemson game on today?

TV channel: TNT
Streaming: Max | Sling TV

This CFP first-round game featuring Texas and Clemson will be shown live on TNT. The commentary will be provided by Dave Pasch, Dusty Dvoracek, and Taylor McGregor. Streaming services available include Max and Sling TV, which carry TNT.

Texas vs Clemson previous matchups

This will be the first-ever meeting between Texas and Clemson in the history of their programs, taking place in the first round of the College Football Playoff.

Predictions for Texas vs Clemson

Derrian Carter, The Greenville News: Texas takes the win over Clemson

“Texas has remained one of the top teams in the nation despite their loss in the SEC championship. Their only two defeats were against Georgia, who also triumphed over Clemson in their first match of the season. With a crowd of over 100,000 fans supporting them, the Longhorns will clinch victory against Clemson and move on to the next round of the CFP. Also, Clemson has failed to win against SEC teams this season, currently sitting at 0-2.”

Thomas Jones, Austin American-Statesman: Texas 35, Clemson 24

CFP betting odds for Texas vs Clemson

Odds and lines from BetMGM as of Thursday, December 19:

Spread: Texas (-12)
Over/under: 51.5 points
Moneyline: Texas (-450) | Clemson (+350)

Injury updates for Texas vs Clemson

This section will be updated as necessary.

Weather updates for Texas vs Clemson

Based on Weather.com, the weather in Austin, Texas is expected to be sunny with a high temperature of 62 degrees on Saturday. The sun is projected to set around 5:34 p.m., which means it should occur during the second half of the game. There is no chance of rain at kickoff, and light winds at 5 mph are expected to blow from the southeast.

Texas football schedule for 2024

Below is a glance at Texas’ 2024 schedule, including outcomes from previous games:

Saturday, August 31: vs. Colorado State (W, 52-0)
Saturday, Sept. 7: at No. 10 Michigan (W, 31-12)
Saturday, Sept. 14: vs. UTSA (W, 56-7)
Saturday, Sept. 21: vs. UL Monroe (W, 51-3)
Saturday, Sept. 28: vs. Mississippi State * (W, 35-13)
Saturday, Oct. 5: BYE
Saturday, Oct. 12: vs. No. 18 Oklahoma * (W, 34-3)
Saturday, Oct. 19: vs. No. 5 Georgia * (L, 30-15)
Saturday, Oct. 29: at No. 25 Vanderbilt * (W, 27-24)
Saturday, Nov. 2: BYE
Saturday, Nov. 9: vs. Florida * (W, 49-24)
Saturday, Nov. 16: at Arkansas * (W, 20-10)
Saturday, Nov. 23: vs. Kentucky * (W, 31-14)
Saturday, Nov. 30: at No. 20 Texas A&M * (W, 17-7)
Saturday, Dec. 7 (SEC championship game): vs. No. 5 Georgia (L, 22-19 OT)
Saturday, Dec. 21: vs. No. 12 Clemson (CFP first-round) **
Record: 11-2 overall, 7-1 in SEC play

* Indicates SEC game

** Indicates CFP ranking

Clemson football 2024 schedule

Take a glance at Clemson’s 2024 schedule, featuring previous scores and outcomes:

Saturday, Aug. 31: vs. No. 1 Georgia (L, 34-3)
Saturday, Sept. 7: vs. App State (W, 66-20)
Saturday, Sept. 14: BYE
Saturday, Sept. 21: vs. NC State * (W, 59-35)
Saturday, Sept. 28: vs. Stanford * (W, 40-14)
Saturday, Oct. 5: at FSU * (W, 29-13)
Saturday, Oct. 12: at Wake Forest (L, 49-14)
Saturday, Oct. 19: vs. Virginia * (W, 48-31)
Saturday, Oct. 26: BYE
Saturday, Nov. 2: vs. Louisville * (L, 33-21)
Saturday, Nov. 9: at Virginia Tech * (W, 24-14)
Saturday, Nov. 16: at Pitt * (W, 24-20)
Saturday, Nov. 23: vs. The Citadel (W, 51-14)
Saturday, Nov. 30: vs. No. 15 South Carolina (L, 17-14)
Saturday, Dec. 7 (ACC championship game): vs. No. 8 SMU (W, 34-31)
Saturday, Dec. 21: at No. 5 Texas (CFP first-round) **
Record: 10-3 overall, 7-1 in ACC play

* Indicates ACC game