AUSTIN, Texas — In a remarkable performance amid challenges, Jaydon Blue stood out with a pivotal contribution during the most significant game of Texas’ season. Battling through a persistent ankle injury and issues with fumbling, Blue’s efforts were crucial in leading the Longhorns to a 38-24 victory over Clemson, securing their advancement in the newly expanded College Football Playoff.
Blue’s impressive 146-yard rushing game included a thrilling 77-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter. He stepped into the starting position after injuries sidelined C.J. Baxter and Christian Clark for the year. Although Blue missed one game due to his ankle injury and faced reduced opportunities because of past fumbles, he ultimately rose to the occasion. With the win, Texas (12-2) secured a spot in the Peach Bowl on January 1 against Arizona State, the Big 12 champions and No. 4 seed.
“You can’t win the championship if you don’t win the first one,” stated Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian. “We accomplished that.” Blue’s earlier touchdown, a 38-yard sprint, had put Texas ahead substantially when Clemson mounted a resurgence, narrowing the lead to 31-24 with a touchdown by Cade Klubnik.
The second touchdown was marked by Blue’s determination as he broke through tackles and raced to the end zone, protecting the ball tenaciously against an oncoming defender. Reflecting on his accomplishment, Blue expressed relief after overcoming his struggles. “I stayed patient, I saw a crease, and it was all clear from there,” he said.
Sarkisian praised Blue’s resilience, reinforcing that the team’s confidence in him never wavered. “Our staff and his teammates believed in him,” he remarked, expressing his pride with a celebratory hug for the running back.
Alongside Blue, Quintrevion Wisner contributed significantly with 110 rushing yards and two touchdowns in the first half. Quarterback Quinn Ewers also played a vital role, passing for 202 yards and one touchdown. On the other side, Klubnik, an Austin native, threw for 336 yards and added pressure on the Texas defense, which had been formidable throughout the season.
Despite the loss, Clemson coach Dabo Swinney recognized the team’s fighting spirit but noted the challenges they faced early in the game. “We just dug too deep a hole in the first half,” he said. Under this new playoff format, Texas stands out as the only team from last season’s playoffs to make it to the expanded 12-team lineup, while Clemson returns as the No. 12 seed following a successful run in the ACC.
Highlighting the significance of the home playoff game feature in the new format, Sarkisian noted, “College football got this one right. It was pretty special.”
The game saw Clemson grapple with crucial fourth-down situations in the final quarter. Though their first attempt resulted in a touchdown, they faltered on the subsequent two, with significant stops by the Texas defense.
For the Longhorns, there are concerns ahead regarding injuries, as Wisner, offensive tackle Cam Williams, and center Jake Majors all exited the game during the second quarter. Sarkisian mentioned that they decided to keep Wisner and Majors out for the second half, while Williams’ condition would be assessed overnight.
On a record-breaking note, Texas tight end Gunnar Helm recorded six receptions for 77 yards, including a remarkable 19-yard touchdown that showcased his agility. This performance brought his season total to 55 catches, breaking the previous school record held by J.T. Sanders.
Looking ahead, Clemson aims to defend its ACC title next season and seeks to secure its eighth playoff berth. Meanwhile, Texas prepares to face Arizona State in the coming round, marking a notable return as they had left the Big 12 before Arizona State’s admission into the league this season.