Clemson football’s push for a College Football Playoff spot remains strong as they enter their bye week with a 6-1 record and a 5-0 mark in the ACC. Thanks to the new 12-team playoff format, the Tigers have multiple paths to a playoff berth, especially if they win the ACC. An outright conference title would ensure Clemson an automatic spot as one of the top five highest-ranked conference champions, with the top four earning first-round byes, making a championship the Tigers’ most direct route.
With the ACC now divisionless, the two highest-ranking teams will meet in the ACC Championship. Currently, Clemson leads the standings with a two-game edge in the win column over Miami and SMU, both at 3-0 in conference play, and Pitt, who is also now 3-0 with their win over Syracuse.
After the bye, Clemson faces a challenging stretch. They’ll first host a high-powered Louisville offense, then hit the road for back-to-back games at Virginia Tech’s notoriously loud Lane Stadium and Pitt, who remains undefeated in ACC play. The Tigers wrap up their regular season with non-conference games against The Citadel and South Carolina, which won’t impact ACC standings but could affect their national ranking and playoff standing.
Even if Clemson finishes 11-2 after a potential loss in the ACC Championship, they could still qualify for an at-large playoff spot. The first College Football Playoff rankings, which come out on Nov. 5, will give a clearer picture of where Clemson stands. If they continue to win, a Top 10 position is likely, with the potential to move into the Top 5, meaning a close loss to a top opponent, like Miami, wouldn’t necessarily end their playoff bid.
Other teams Clemson may compete against for a spot include three Big Ten teams in the AP Top 5: Oregon, Penn State, and Ohio State, as well as an unexpected Indiana squad, ranked No. 13. The SEC also has several one-loss teams, including Georgia, Texas, and Tennessee, while Alabama, with two losses, faces elimination if they drop another game.
In the Big 12, Iowa State and BYU both remain undefeated, and their potential title game clash could serve as a playoff elimination match. Group of 5 and Independent contenders like Notre Dame and Boise State are also aiming for playoff spots if they finish their seasons strong.
As the season nears its conclusion, Clemson’s playoff hopes will hinge on their ability to navigate this challenging stretch and secure wins. Every remaining game matters in their quest to return to college football’s biggest stage.