BREAKING NEWS: No. 5 Texas runs away from No. 12 Clemson, off to CFP quarterfinals….see more

No. 5 Texas Dominates No. 12 Clemson, Advances to CFP Quarterfinals

In a thrilling showdown between two powerhouse programs, the No. 5 Texas Longhorns delivered a commanding

performance to defeat the No. 12 Clemson Tigers, securing a spot in the College Football Playoff (CFP) quarterfinals.

The game, held at a raucous DKR–Texas Memorial Stadium, was a statement win for the Longhorns, who flexed

their offensive and defensive muscles in a 45-17 victory.

The Longhorns came into the contest with a clear sense of purpose, knowing a victory would propel them closer to a

potential national championship. Texas wasted no time asserting dominance over their ACC rivals, establishing

control early and never letting go.

Quarterback Quinn Ewers, who has been one of the standout signal-callers in college football this season, played

with confidence and poise, throwing for 300 yards and three touchdowns. Ewers’ connection with his top receiver,

Xavier Worthy, was especially lethal. Worthy, who had been quiet in some of the earlier games this season, erupted

for a spectacular 135-yard performance, hauling in two touchdown passes. The duo’s chemistry was evident, as

Ewers continually found Worthy downfield for big gains.

Texas’ offensive line, which had been somewhat inconsistent at times this season, provided stellar protection,

allowing Ewers to have a clean pocket for much of the game. The running game, led by Bijan Robinson, also

contributed significantly. Robinson, known for his bruising runs and elusiveness, powered his way to 125 yards and a

touchdown. The running back’s ability to move the chains and eat up clock kept the Clemson defense on its heels

throughout the contest.

While Texas’ offense stole the show, the defense was equally dominant. The Longhorns’ defensive front harassed

Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik all game long. Texas sacked Klubnik four times and pressured him on numerous

other occasions, forcing him into erratic throws. The Longhorn secondary also stepped up, intercepting Klubnik

twice and limiting Clemson’s ability to stretch the field. Longhorn linebacker Jaylan Ford was a standout, constantly

disrupting plays and finishing with 10 tackles, a sack, and an interception.

Clemson, despite being ranked No. 12 and boasting a talented roster, struggled to keep pace with Texas. Klubnik,

who had shown promise throughout the season, was unable to find any rhythm against the Texas defense. His

attempts to connect with star receiver Antonio Williams were often thwarted by tight coverage and consistent

pressure from the Longhorns’ front seven. Clemson’s running game, led by Will Shipley, was stifled, with the Tigers

only managing 85 rushing yards on the day.

In the second half, Texas continued to pile on the points, effectively sealing the game with a pair of touchdowns in

the third quarter. Clemson’s offense showed flashes but was unable to capitalize on any momentum, as the Texas

defense tightened its grip.

By the time the final whistle blew, Texas had firmly established itself as one of the most complete teams in the

nation. With the 45-17 win, the Longhorns secured their place in the College Football Playoff quarterfinals, where

they will face another tough opponent. For Texas, this victory not only solidified their playoff berth but also sent a

message to the rest of the field: the Longhorns are a team to be reckoned with.