LAS VEGAS, NV — Clemson claimed its first national title since 2017 in emphatic fashion, defeating No. 1 Georgia 42-24 at Allegiant Stadium. Junior quarterback Christopher Vizzina delivered a near-flawless performance, throwing for 347 yards and three touchdowns — two of them to standout receiver TJ Moore — as the Tigerscapitalized on a key injury that turned the game.

Georgia, undefeated entering the championship, kept things tight early and trailed just 20-17 at halftime. But disaster struck late in the second quarter when Gunner Stockton, the Bulldogs’ senior quarterback, went down with a high ankle sprain on a scramble. He did not return.

Forced to turn to redshirt sophomore Ryan Puglisi, who had not thrown a pass all season, Georgia’s offense lost momentum. Puglisi went 14-of-22 for 151 yards with one touchdown and one interception, but he was also sacked twice and struggled to extend drives.

With Georgia reeling, Clemson pounced. Vizzina connected with Tyler Brown on a 17-yard strike midway through the third quarter to push the lead to 27-17. A Georgia turnover led to a quick score by Jay Haynes, and by the time the fourth quarter arrived, Clemson had full control.

Kicker Nolan Hauser added his third field goal of the night to make it 33-17. Puglisi responded with a 4-yard touchdown pass to Lawrence Cager, but it was too little, too late. Running back Gideon Davis tacked on one final touchdown with 1:12 left to ignite the celebration on the Clemson sideline.

Heisman Trophy winner Zachariah Branch was largely neutralized by the Clemson defense. His lone highlight was a 65-yard punt return touchdown late in the second quarter. He finished with just three receptions for 28 yards in his final collegiate game.

Vizzina, who completed 32 of 39 passes with no interceptions, cemented himself as one of the top returning quarterbacks heading into 2027 — as Clemson eyes another title run. Meanwhile, Georgia will say goodbye to two of its most iconic players in Stockton and Branch, both graduating seniors.