Will Clemson make the College Football Playoff if it beats SMU? Tigers' postseason outlook explored 

The No. 17 Clemson Tigers most likely have one last opportunity to secure a spot in the College Football Playoff this season. The Tigers (9-3) are set to face the No. 7 SMU Mustangs (11-1) in the ACC Championship Game on Saturday at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte.

The stakes are high, with an automatic CFP berth and a potential first-round bye on the line. Kickoff is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. ET. The game will be broadcast on ABC.

Will Clemson make the College Football Playoff if it beats SMU?

Clemson's on a high road but is on the path to the College Football Playoff with a win over SMU in the upcoming ACC Championship Game. The Tigers have experienced a challenging season but remain in contention after their strong season finish and a chance to claim the conference title.

Clemson, under coach Dabo Swinney, won two national titles, appeared in the CFP six times, claimed eight conference championships and stood out as one of the strongest programs since 2010. However, this year’s path is more challenging due to the Tigers’ three losses.

What happens if SMU beats Clemson in the ACC Championship Game?

SMU would secure one of the five automatic CFP berths awarded to conference champions. The Mustangs would likely claim the No. 3 seed, positioning them behind the Big Ten and SEC champions. This would also earn SMU a first-round bye, with their next game taking place on Jan. 1 in the Peach Bowl – a CFP quarterfinal matchup – if they win against Clemson.

With three losses, the Tigers would need to surpass the winners of the Mountain West Championship game between Boise State and UNLV and the Big 12 Championship Game between Arizona State and Iowa State in the CFP rankings to remain in contention. Additionally, they would face competition from teams like Alabama and possibly SMU, depending on how the committee evaluates.

Who is favored to win the ACC Championship game?

FanDuel Sportsbook lists SMU as a 2.5-point favorite over Clemson for the ACC Championship Game. The total points line is set at 55.5, with odds of Over (-105) and Under (-115). SMU's moneyline stands at -132 while Clemson’s is +110.

ESPN’s computer model also predicts an SMU victory, giving the Mustangs a 53.8% chance of winning. The game promises to be a high-powered clash, with teams having postseason dreams and championship aspirations.

Who do you think will win the ACC Championship Game between the Clemson Tigers and SMU Mustangs? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.