SMU faced a daunting challenge in the ACC Championship Game on Saturday night, falling behind by double digits early against the formidable Clemson Tigers. However, the Mustangs showcased their resilience, clawing their way back to tie the game in the final moments. Unfortunately, time was not on their side, as Clemson managed to orchestrate a drive that culminated in a game-winning field goal as the clock hit zero.
What This Win Means for Clemson
With this hard-fought victory, Clemson has effectively secured an automatic bid to the College Football Playoff, likely positioning themselves as one of the top five ranked conference champions. This win solidifies their status as a powerhouse in college football, a recognition they have earned through consistent excellence over the past decade. For the Mustangs, however, this victory for Clemson leaves them in a precarious position, now relying on the selection committee for a potential at-large bid to the playoff.
SMU’s Case for Inclusion
The stakes couldn’t be higher for SMU. Should they receive an at-large bid, it would likely come at the expense of a team like Alabama, which is currently ranked No. 11 and sits in the last at-large spot according to the latest rankings. This situation raises an important question: Does SMU deserve a shot at the playoff?
Color commentator Greg McElroy, who has a deep understanding of the game and a unique perspective as a former Alabama quarterback, passionately argued for SMU’s inclusion during the broadcast. “I think they absolutely have proven that they are good enough,” McElroy stated. “They just went toe-to-toe with the class of the ACC for the last 10 years and they almost pulled it off.”
The Importance of Conference Championship Games
McElroy also highlighted a critical point regarding the implications of the committee’s decision. He warned that leaving SMU out could set a dangerous precedent. “The committee has a very dangerous precedent that could be set if SMU is left out. Because then you are essentially telling people, you’re de-incentivizing the conference championship game. That’s a very concerning thing, I think, for the health of college football,” he explained.
This raises another question: What does it mean for the future of college football if teams like SMU, who demonstrate their capabilities on such a grand stage, are overlooked? The integrity of the playoff system relies on recognizing the achievements of all deserving teams, regardless of their conference affiliation.
The Performance of the Mustangs
Despite their impressive comeback, SMU’s performance was not without flaws. McElroy pointed out that the Mustangs played below their potential early in the game. “They played bad, by the way. That was a bad performance from SMU, relative to what they’re capable of, at the beginning of the game,” he noted. Yet, the fact that they were able to rally and tie the game against a top-tier opponent speaks volumes about their character and skill.
This resilience is what makes college football so thrilling. Teams can overcome adversity, and the heart-stopping moments keep fans on the edge of their seats. As SMU demonstrated, they have the talent and determination to compete with the best, and that should not be ignored.
The Committee’s Dilemma
As the selection committee prepares to make their decisions, the debate surrounding SMU’s candidacy will undoubtedly intensify. McElroy emphasized that it will be fascinating to see how the committee weighs the performances of teams like SMU against traditional powerhouses. “I don’t think anyone could come out of this thing and think that SMU doesn’t belong,” he asserted, underscoring the belief that the Mustangs have earned their place in the conversation.
The committee’s choice will have a lasting impact, not just on the teams involved this year, but on the future landscape of college football. If they choose to overlook SMU, it could discourage other programs from striving for excellence, knowing that their efforts might not be rewarded.
The Future of SMU Football
Looking ahead, SMU must continue to build on this momentum. Their performance in the ACC Championship Game showcased their potential and left fans hopeful for what the future holds. With a strong recruiting class and a commitment to excellence, the Mustangs can position themselves as a perennial contender in college football.
The narrative surrounding SMU is one of resilience, determination, and the fight for recognition. As they await the committee’s decision, one thing is clear: they have made a statement that cannot be ignored. Whether they secure an at-large bid or not, their journey has captured the hearts of fans and showcased the unpredictability and excitement that college football offers.
In this ever-evolving landscape, the Mustangs have proven they belong in the conversation. Will the committee agree? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: SMU is a team to watch, and their fight for a spot in the playoff is far from over.
