Clemson, No. 9, is back in the ACC championship game after not starting last season for the first time since 2014, and the Tigers capitalized on the opportunity so far by leading No. 23 North Carolina 24-10 at halftime . The Tar Heels took a 7-0 lead, forcing Clemson to make back-to-back three-and-outs to start the game before a quarterback change turned the momentum in that duel.
In Clemson’s third series, coach Dabo Swinney brought freshman quarterback Cade Klubnik into the game against starter DJ Uiagalelei, and results followed immediately as Klubnik completed 5 of 5 passes on a 71-yard touchdown drive to jump-start the Tigers give. From there, a costly North Carolina fumble and a blocked field goal attempt helped the Tigers extend their lead.
Neither team has any hope of making the college football playoffs, but the winner is likely destined for the Orange Bowl. Achieving a bowl of this magnitude would be a particularly significant achievement for a UNC program revived under fourth-year coach Mack Brown. An ACC title would also mark a strong recovery for Clemson after the Tigers suffered a surprise loss to rivals South Carolina in the final week of the regular season.
Keep it locked here as CBS Sports provides live updates, analysis and highlights throughout the ACC Championship game.