SMU (4-2, 2-0 ACC) faces Clemson (3-3, 2-2 ACC) in a Week 8 ACC matchup at Memorial Stadium in Clemson, SC.
SMU comes in with momentum in conference play. Junior quarterback Kevin Jennings has been sharp, completing 71.7 % of his passes so far for 1,658 yards and 15 touchdowns, though with 6 interceptions.
The receiving corps is anchored by Romello Brinson, who has 484 yards on 32 catches (3 TDs), averaging 15.1 yards per reception with a long of 75.
But SMU’s defense shows a clear weakness: they allow an average of 423.2 yards per game (119th in the FBS). Their run defense is solid — just 107.3 rushing yards allowed per game (27th) — but the secondary has struggled, giving up 315.8 passing yards per game (135th).
Clemson, meanwhile, is in a critical juncture. Their offense has produced when healthy, with WR Bryant Wesco Jr. leading the charge with 537 receiving yards and 6 TDs.
But QB Cade Klubnik has been ruled out today with an ankle injury. But the absence of Klubnik shakes things up: his replacement, Chris Vizzina, started earlier this month against UNC, completing 6 of 11 passes for 39 yards. With Klubnik unavailable, Clemson’s offensive ceiling may be capped.
On the defensive side, Clemson must find ways to contain Jennings and limit big-play opportunities through the air. Their pass defense is middle of the pack: 217.8 yards per game (65th). Their run defense is strong: 105.0 rushing yards allowed per game (24th). Overall, they’re limiting opponents to about 18.5 points per game (27th).
Historically, these teams have only met once prior: in the 2024 ACC Championship game, which Clemson won 34–31 on a walk-off field goal.
Prediction
Given SMU’s offensive weapons and Clemson’s disruption at quarterback, exepct a close SMU road upset.
Projected Score: SMU 27, Clemson 24
How to Watch SMU vs. Clemson
Kickoff for SMU vs. Clemson is set for 3:30 PM Eastern at Memorial Stadium in Clemson.
The game airs live on the ACC Network and streams through the ESPN app and website with a TV provider login.
Looking to catch the game for free? The ACC Network is also available on Fubo, YouTube TV, and Hulu + Live TV — all of which offer free trials.
SMU Mustangs vs. Clemson Tigers
Date: Saturday, October 18, 2025
Time: 3:30 PM Eastern
Venue: Memorial Stadium, Clemson, SC
TV: ACC Network
Streaming: ACC and ESPN apps and websites
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