Clemson clinched a place in the College Football Playoff after a thrilling 34-31 victory over No. 8 SMU in the ACC Championship Game, capped off by a dramatic 56-yard walk-off field goal from kicker Nolan Hauser. This win not only earned Clemson the ACC title but also solidified its candidacy for multiple playoff spots for the ACC. The victory sent SMU home with hopes of a playoff bid, as they await their fate after falling just short in a comeback attempt. The College Football Playoff committee now faces tough decisions regarding the final teams and possible matchups, with Clemson set to clash with Texas in the first round of the playoffs.