The Clemson Tigers entered Saturday's matchup against SMU with their backs against the wall, forced to navigate a tough conference game without their leader. With starting quarterback Cade Klubnik sidelined by an ankle injury, the keys to the offense were tossed to sophomore Christopher Vizzina for his first career start. The result has been a baptism by fire, as a disciplined and explosive SMU squad has capitalized on every opportunity to take a stunning 16-7 lead into the locker room at Memorial Stadium.
The story of the first half has been SMU's big-play ability and the steady leg of their kicker, Sam Keltner. The Mustangs struck first and loudest when quarterback Kevin Jennings uncorked a 70-yard touchdown bomb to Jordan Hudson, silencing the home crowd in a flash. While that was their only trip to the end zone, Keltner has been a weapon, connecting on three massive field goals from 51, 48, and another 48 yards out. SMU's offense has been methodical, converting crucial third downs and taking what the Clemson defense gives them.
For Clemson, Vizzina's debut has been a tale of two halves within one. The freshman has shown flashes of brilliance, completing an impressive 13 of 17 passes for 112 yards. His shining moment came on a perfectly thrown 32-yard touchdown pass to T.J. Moore that briefly pulled Clemson back into the game at 10-7. However, his inexperience has also been costly. Vizzina has put the ball on the turf twice, losing one fumble deep in his own territory that SMU's defense pounced on, leading directly to one of Keltner's field goals.
Key Performers at the Half:
- Kevin Jennings, QB, SMU: 12-of-24 for 154 yards, including the game-changing 70-yard TD pass.
- Christopher Vizzina, QB, Clemson: A respectable 13-of-17 for 112 yards and a TD in his first start, but marred by a lost fumble.
- Jordan Hudson, WR, SMU: The star of the half with 3 catches for 84 yards and a touchdown.
- Sam Keltner, K, SMU: Perfect on the day, accounting for 10 of SMU's 16 points with three long field goals and a PAT.
- Sammy Brown, LB, Clemson: A bright spot for the Clemson defense, leading the team with 6 total tackles and half a sack.
For SMU, the message at halftime is simple: keep the foot on the gas. They have the lead, the momentum, and a clear advantage in the turnover battle. They need to continue to pressure the young quarterback and turn those opportunities into points.
For Clemson, adjustments are critical. The coaching staff must find ways to simplify the game for Vizzina, relying on the run game and short, high-percentage passes to build his confidence and, most importantly, protect the football. The Tigers are still very much in this game, but they cannot afford to give away any more possessions if they hope to mount a second-half comeback in Death Valley.