CFP takeaways: Texas HC Steve Sarkisian finds recipe for success in win over Clemson

CFP takeaways: Texas HC Steve Sarkisian finds recipe for success in win over Clemson

Five-seed Texas (12-2) made home teams 3-0 in the first round of the College Football Playoff with a 38-24 win over Clemson (10-4), the closest of the three opening-round games.

Here are five takeaways from the first college football meeting between the storied programs.

Texas rushing attack sparks victory

Head coach Steve Sarkisian found a recipe for success.

Texas gained nearly 300 rushing yards, finishing the game with 292 yards. The Longhorns had 216 yards on eight “big” rushing plays, defined as carries that gain at least 10 yards. Texas leaned on the explosive attack, bringing the program three wins from its first college football national championship since 2005.

Jaydon Blue had the two longest carries, a 38-yarder to break a first-half 7-7 tie and a 77-yarder in the fourth to give the Longhorns breathing room after Clemson pulled within seven, 31-24.

With questions surrounding the quarterback position and whether Quinn Ewers or Arch Manning gives Texas the best chance to lead the team to a championship, the Longhorns offered an alternative against Clemson.

Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik

Klubnik gave the Tigers a reason to be excited about 2025. The Austin native was the better quarterback against Texas, finishing 26-of-43 for 336 yards, three touchdowns and an interception.

He made several big throws in the second half as Clemson attempted a comeback from a 21-point deficit.

The junior also had his big game without help from Clemson’s rushing offense. The Tigers had 76 yards, with wide receiver Adam Randall leading the team with 44 yards. Running backs Keith Adams Jr., Jarvis Green and Phil Mafah combined to rush seven times for 27 yards.