MIAMI GARDENS, FL — No. 1 Clemson left little doubt about who the nation’s top team is, rolling past No. 5 UCLA 40-14 at Hard Rock Stadium to secure a spot in the College Football Playoff National Championship Game.
The victory sets up a highly anticipated rematch with Georgia, whom the Tigers defeated 42-24 in last season’s championship game. Clemson entered that contest as the No. 2 team in the nation and now will have an opportunity to defend its title as the No. 1 seed.
Playing in the next-to-last game of his collegiate career, quarterback Christopher Vizzina was once again outstanding. The senior completed passes for 214 yards and three touchdowns while adding another score on the ground to lead the Tigers’ offense.
Clemson’s defense was equally dominant.
Linebacker Rob Billings spearheaded the effort, recording two interceptions and returning one for a touchdown. The Tigers relentlessly pressured UCLA quarterback Pierce Clarkson, sacking him 5.5 times. Price Ogbah added another interception as Clemson’s defense repeatedly shut down Bruin drives.
Vizzina opened the scoring in the first quarter, finishing off a lengthy drive with a 1-yard quarterback keeper. Clemson added a touchdown and a field goal later in the quarter to seize a 17-0 advantage and immediately put UCLA on its heels.
The Bruins briefly showed signs of life early in the second quarter when Clarkson connected with Mikey Matthews for a touchdown pass. But any hopes of a comeback quickly disappeared as Clemson tightened its grip on the game and continued to pile up points.
UCLA would not reach the end zone again until 1:26 remained in the fourth quarter. By then, the Bruins trailed 40-7 and the outcome had long been decided.
Clarkson struggled under constant pressure throughout the evening as Clemson’s defense controlled the line of scrimmage and prevented UCLA from establishing any offensive rhythm.
Now the Tigers turn their attention to a familiar foe. Clemson will seek its second consecutive national championship when it faces Georgia in a rematch of last season’s title game, with both programs once again standing as the last two teams left in the hunt for college football’s ultimate prize.
