Prediction: Clemson vs. SMU – Tigers VS Mustangs in Death Valley
| October 18, 2025
On Saturday, October 18, at 3:30 p.m. ET, the Clemson Tigers (3-3, 2-2 ACC) face the SMU Mustangs (4-2, 2-0 ACC) in Death Valley, revisiting last season’s dramatic ACC Championship Game, where Clemson won 34-31 on Nolan Hauser’s 56-yard field goal as time expired. Now, in a crucial ACC clash, Clemson aims to build on a two-game win streak, while SMU seeks to solidify its contender status in its second ACC season.This is a high-stakes showdown. Clemson, under Dabo Swinney, crushed Boston College 41-10 last week, totaling 504 yards. Their defense, led by sophomore linebacker Sammy Brown and sophomore defensive tackle Peter Woods, allows 17.2 points per game (top-20 nationally in 2024). Offensively, they average 30.3 points in ACC play (2024 average). The biggest question mark is quarterback Cade Klubnik’s health.
Cade Klubnik’s Injury Status: A Game-Time Decision Klubnik suffered an ankle sprain in the third quarter against Boston College on a designed run, exiting after completing 22-of-30 passes for 280 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. Backup Christopher Vizzina closed out the win with a touchdown drive. Swinney remains optimistic: “Cade wanted back in badly—he’s a warrior. I absolutely think he’ll play against SMU.” Klubnik added, “I just got banged up… I feel pretty good, so I’m excited to attack this week.” The ACC injury report lists him as questionable, with limited practice early in the week.
Prediction: Clemson 31, SMU 27
Klubnik likely plays, leaning on quick passes to Antonio Williams and Bryant Wesco Jr. . Adam Randall powers the ground game, gaining key yards to set up a late drive. Clemson’s defense, with Brown and Woods, sacks Jennings twice and forces a late interception. SMU stays close with explosive plays, but Death Valley’s October magic prevails. The Tigers secure a late field goal to move to 4-3. Who’s your pick?
