NFL Previews 
MLB Previews 
NBA Previews 
NHL Previews 
Soccer Previews 
Prediction 
Odds 
Last Recap 
Game Picks 
Top Handicapper 
SMU Mustangs vs Clemson Tigers Betting Preview
The SMU Mustangs visit the Clemson Tigers on Saturday for a key Atlantic Coast Conference matchup at Memorial Stadium in Clemson, South Carolina. Kickoff is set for 3:30 PM ET and will air nationally on ABC.
SMU (4-2, 2-0 ACC) enters the game riding a remarkable 19-game conference winning streak, stretching across its time in the American Athletic Conference and now the ACC. Clemson (3-3, 2-2) looks to build on momentum after a dominant 41-10 victory over Boston College.
Follow 24/7 Betting Action, All Year Long
One Membership, Endless Picks
SMU Chasing History
Head coach Rhett Lashlee’s Mustangs continue to thrive since joining the ACC. Their 19 consecutive regular-season conference victories include 10 straight in the ACC, a run Lashlee believes underscores the program’s legitimacy. “We belong here,” Lashlee said. “It doesn’t mean we’ve arrived, but we’ve shown we can compete at this level.”
Quarterback Kevin Jennings leads the charge for SMU. The dual-threat signal-caller owns a 14-5 record as a starter and has thrown for at least two touchdowns in 13 of his last 17 games. This season, Jennings has amassed 1,622 passing yards and 15 total touchdowns.
The Mustangs’ offense is among the ACC’s most efficient, averaging 34.8 points per game and ranking top 20 nationally in total offense. Wideouts Jordan Hudson and Moochie Dixon have combined for over 900 yards and nine touchdowns, while running back LJ Johnson Jr. adds balance with 412 rushing yards.
SMU’s defense, often overshadowed by its explosive offense, has quietly excelled — allowing just 19.4 points per game and leading the ACC in third-down defense. Linebacker Kobe Wilson and safety Isaiah Nwokobia anchor a unit that thrives on creating pressure.
You can track odds updates and performance metrics on the college football odds page.
Clemson Counting on Klubnik’s Return
Clemson’s season has been a roller coaster, but last week’s 41-10 rout of Boston College provided stability. The Tigers’ offensive resurgence has come under quarterback Cade Klubnik, who has thrown for 1,530 yards and 11 touchdowns this season.
Klubnik left the Boston College game with a sprained ankle but is expected to play Saturday. “He’s sore but improving,” coach Dabo Swinney said. “He’ll be a little better each day and should be ready to go.”
The Tigers’ offense looked balanced last week, totaling 478 yards and scoring on six of their first eight drives. Running back Phil Mafah rushed for 115 yards and two touchdowns, while wide receiver Tyler Brown added 92 yards through the air.
Defensively, Clemson has held opponents to 17.2 points per game, led by standout linebacker Barrett Carter and defensive tackle Peter Woods. The Tigers’ front seven will be tested by SMU’s tempo-heavy attack, which leads the ACC in plays per game (78.4).
Check out expert projections and line moves on the college football betting guide.
Line Movement and Odds
According to the latest college football picks, Clemson opened as a 6.5-point home favorite, with the total set at 60.5. Early sharp action has come in on SMU, pushing the spread closer to -4.5 at some sportsbooks. The total has trended slightly upward due to both teams’ offensive explosiveness.
Clemson is 2-4 against the spread this season, while SMU is 4-2 ATS. The Mustangs have also gone over the total in four of their last six contests.
Matchup Breakdown
SMU Mustangs Outlook
SMU’s success stems from balance. Jennings’ decision-making and Lashlee’s tempo-based offense have given defenses fits. The Mustangs rank top 10 nationally in third-down conversions and red-zone efficiency.
The offensive line has been consistent, allowing only six sacks through six games. That protection will be critical against Clemson’s aggressive pass rush. Defensively, SMU forces opponents into long drives, ranking second in the ACC in opponent yards per play (4.8).
If the Mustangs can limit turnovers and keep drives alive, their offensive rhythm could frustrate Clemson’s defense.
Clemson Tigers Outlook
The Tigers’ offense has rediscovered its spark behind Klubnik’s improved pocket presence. Clemson averages 30.5 points per game, and the offensive line has helped produce 180 rushing yards per outing.
The defense remains the team’s identity. Clemson has allowed just four offensive touchdowns in its last three games. Carter and Woods headline a unit that ranks second in the ACC in rushing defense (92.6 yards per game).
If Klubnik is near full strength, expect the Tigers to mix short passing with designed quarterback runs to control tempo and keep SMU’s offense off the field.
Key Edge
SMU’s discipline and offensive creativity give them a realistic shot at the upset, especially if Clemson’s offense starts slow. However, Clemson’s physicality and home-field advantage at Death Valley could ultimately prove decisive.
The Mustangs’ 19-game conference win streak will be tested against one of the nation’s toughest defensive fronts.
Betting Trends
- SMU is 19-0 straight-up in its last 19 conference games.
- SMU is 6-2 ATS in its last eight games on the road.
- Clemson is 8-3 straight-up in its last 11 home games.
- The over has hit in four of SMU’s last six games.
Best Bets and Prediction
Both teams are trending upward, but Clemson’s defense and depth at home make the difference. Expect SMU to keep it competitive early, but the Tigers’ defensive line could wear them down late.
Projected Score: Clemson 34, SMU 27
Best Bet: SMU +6.5
Secondary Lean: Over 60.5
For more analysis and betting insights, visit ScoresAndStats College Football.
