Hannah Hidalgo leads Notre Dame to shocking overtime win over Texas

In Charlotte, North Carolina, Cade Klubnik delivered a standout performance by throwing for 262 yards and securing four touchdowns. The game culminated dramatically as Nolan Hauser kicked a 56-yard field goal just as the clock expired, enabling No. 18 Clemson to triumph over No. 6 SMU with a score of 34-31. This victory in the Atlantic Coast Conference championship game not only earned Clemson a championship title, but also a spot in the College Football Playoff, positioning the team for a coveted first-round bye. Clemson's success was propelled by a powerful opening, where they achieved a 21-7 lead thanks to Bryant Wesco's impressive receptions totaling 143 yards and two touchdowns. On the other hand, SMU's Kevin Jennings threw for 310 yards and three touchdowns, contributing to the intense back-and-forth nature of the game. Despite trailing initially and facing the pressure of a packed audience, SMU displayed remarkable resilience throughout the competition. The final moments of the game were filled with tension as the Mustangs had their opportunities to equalize or take the lead. However, they were ultimately unable to convert, resulting in the heartbreak of loss and missing their chance at an early playoff seed. The historic nature of Hauser's last-minute 56-yard kick, marking the longest in ACC championship history, has provoked significant reactions from fans and analysts alike. Consequently, the public discussions around this game are intensified by the implications surrounding Clemson's position in the playoff landscape, which is particularly crucial considering the newly expanded playoff format this season. Coach Dabo Swinney has now led the team to significant successes over the years, yet this particular victory adds to Clemson's storied legacy in college football championships. The direct consequences of this game also highlight the need for SMU to regroup as they face the challenges of playoff contention in the future.