The landscape of college football is evolving at a breakneck pace. With the introduction of a 12-team playoff format, the surge of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals, and an influx of player transfers, the game is experiencing a seismic shift. However, some traditions remain steadfast, and one of those is the fierce rivalry that unfolds when Texas faces off against Clemson in the first round of the College Football Playoff (CFP). Fans can expect a thrilling showdown between two of the sport’s most storied programs.
How Texas and Clemson Made Their Way to the Playoffs
The paths taken by the Longhorns and Tigers to reach this coveted playoff berth were strikingly different. For Texas, the 2024 season was a banner year. Under the guidance of head coach Steve Sarkisian, the Longhorns dominated much of the SEC, with the exception of a tough matchup against Georgia. Their impressive performance earned them the top spot in the regular season rankings. Quarterbacks Quinn Ewers and Arch Manning showcased their potential, while the Texas defense emerged as one of the most formidable units in college football. The culmination of their efforts resulted in an impressive 11-2 record, securing a home game in the first round of the CFP.
In contrast, Clemson’s journey was filled with ups and downs. Coach Dabo Swinney’s squad found themselves on the outside looking in for much of the season. However, a timely loss by Miami reignited the Tigers’ hopes, allowing them to secure a spot in the ACC Championship against SMU. Clemson managed to fend off a fierce comeback from the Mustangs, ultimately capturing the conference title and clinching the 16-seed in this year’s playoff.
What to Expect in the Texas vs. Clemson Matchup
As the anticipation builds for this clash, one thing is certain: fans can expect fireworks. Both teams come with their own strengths and weaknesses, and the outcome of this game could hinge on key moments. Will Texas’s explosive offense outpace Clemson’s resilient defense? Or will the Tigers find a way to disrupt the Longhorns’ rhythm?
Live Updates from the College Football Playoff
The excitement is palpable as the College Football Playoff kicks off from Austin, Texas. The Sporting News is on hand to provide live scores, updates, and highlights throughout the game.
STREAM: Watch Texas vs. Clemson live with Sling TV.
Texas vs. Clemson start time
– Date: Saturday, Dec. 21
– Time: 4:00 p.m. ET
The Longhorns and Tigers will engage in battle in the second game of Saturday’s College Football Playoff triple-header, set to commence at 4 p.m. ET.
What channel is Texas vs. Clemson on today?
– TV Channel: TNT
– Streaming: Max, Sling
TNT will broadcast the highly anticipated matchup between Texas and Clemson, featuring commentary from Dave Pasch and Dusty Dvoracek, with sideline insights from Taylor McGregor and Laura Rutledge. For those who prefer streaming, the game will also be available on Max and Sling.
College Football Playoff schedule 2024
The excitement of the College Football Playoff continues with a packed schedule. Here’s a look at the upcoming matchups:
| Date | Round | Matchup | Time | TV Channel |
|———————|———————|———————–|———————|————————–|
| Dec. 20 | First Round | No. 7 Notre Dame vs. No. 10 Indiana | 8:00 p.m. ET | ABC, ESPN |
| Dec. 21 | First Round | No. 6 Penn State vs. No. 11 SMU | 12:00 p.m. ET | TNT |
| Dec. 21 | First Round | No. 5 Texas vs. No. 12 Clemson | 4:00 p.m. ET | TNT |
| Dec. 21 | First Round | No. 8 Ohio State vs. No. 12 Clemson | 8:00 p.m. ET | ABC, ESPN |
| Dec. 31 | Quarterfinals (Fiesta Bowl) | No. 3 Boise State vs. TBD | 7:30 p.m. ET | ESPN |
| Jan. 1 | Quarterfinals (Peach Bowl) | No. 4 Arizona State vs. TBD | 1:00 p.m. ET | ESPN |
| Jan. 1 | Quarterfinals (Rose Bowl) | No. 1 Oregon vs. TBD | 5:00 p.m. ET | ESPN |
| Jan. 1 | Quarterfinals (Sugar Bowl) | No. 2 Georgia vs. TBD | 8:45 p.m. ET | ESPN |
| Jan. 9 | Semifinals (Orange Bowl) | TBD vs. TBD | 7:30 p.m. ET | ESPN |
| Jan. 10 | Semifinals (Cotton Bowl) | TBD vs. TBD | 7:30 p.m. ET | ESPN |
| Jan. 20 | CFP National Championship | TBD vs. TBD | 7:30 p.m. ET | ESPN |
Texas vs. Clemson live updates, results, highlights
As the game unfolds, fans will be treated to a barrage of thrilling moments.
5:35 p.m.: FIELD GOAL! Clemson narrows the gap with a field goal, as Noah Hauser connects from 32 yards out.
Texas 21, Clemson 10
5:25 p.m.: INTERCEPTION! The Tigers make a crucial stop with an interception, thwarting a Texas drive.
5:16 p.m.: TURNOVER ON DOWNS! Clemson’s defense steps up, stopping the Longhorns just short of the first down marker.
5:13 p.m.: INTERCEPTION! Klubnik gets picked off, setting Texas up just outside the red zone.
With each play, the intensity ramps up. Will Texas’s rushing attack continue to dominate, or can Clemson’s defense find a way to turn the tide? As the clock ticks down, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Fans are in for a treat as these two powerhouse programs clash in a battle for glory.
