Texas vs. Clemson odds, predictions, picks and best bets
The No. 3 ranked Texas Longhorns will take on the No. 16 Clemson Tigers in a first-round College Football Playoff matchup. Texas came up just short in the SEC Championship game to Georgia, falling 22-19 in overtime. The only two losses on the season for the Longhorns came from Georgia, as they beat 10 of […]
The No. 3 ranked Texas Longhorns will take on the No. 16 Clemson Tigers in a first-round College Football Playoff matchup.
Texas came up just short in the SEC Championship game to Georgia, falling 22-19 in overtime. The only two losses on the season for the Longhorns came from Georgia, as they beat 10 of their 11 other opponents by at least two possessions.
Their defense has been dominant, allowing the second-fewest points and third-lowest amount of total yards in the nation. Texas' offense is led by one of the best quarterbacks in the FBS in Quinn Ewers, and a three-headed monster rushing attack featuring Quintrevion Wisner, Jaydon Blue, and Jerrick Gibson.
Clemson beat SMU in a thriller with a game-winning field goal as time expired to win the ACC Championship. The Tigers are the underdogs of the College Football Playoff as the No. 12 seed and are the only three-loss team in the tournament. Quarterback Cade Klubnik has put the offense on his back this season, making big plays with both his arm and legs.
Here are the best odds, bets and predictions for this matchup.
*Odds from DraftKings and subject to change
Texas vs. Clemson Moneyline
Texas: -440
Clemson: +340
Clemson is in a unique position of being an underdog, yet having had a strong program over the last several years with multiple championship wins. However, this matchup against Texas may be just a little too daunting. The Longhorns have an elite defense, and the Tigers have scored a total of just 17 points in two games against SEC defenses this season.
As good as he has been, Klubnik has thrown zero touchdowns and two interceptions in two games against SEC opponents. As for Texas' offense, it has cooled off over the past month, but still has plenty of firepower to take care of business against a subpar Clemson defense. I like the Longhorns to win, but coach Dabo Swinney will have the Tigers well prepared and cover the spread.
Texas vs. Clemson Spread
Texas: -12 (-110)
Clemson: +12 (-110)
There's something off with the Longhorns' offense, and I think Clemson will give them a bit of a scare. However, Texas should play a clean and disciplined game and come out on top.
Texas vs. Clemson Over-Under 52 total points
Over: -108
Under: -112
The Longhorns' defense should keep the Tigers' offense in check, and I expect Texas to be fairly conservative offensively. I'm betting the under.
