The Texas Longhorns shook off their recent SEC Championship Game disappointment with a convincing 38-24 victory over the 12th-seeded Clemson Tigers in the first round of the College Football Playoffs. The fifth-seeded Longhorns controlled much of the game, overcoming an early Clemson touchdown to build a commanding lead.

Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers delivered a solid performance, connecting on 17 of 24 passes for 202 yards. The Longhorns' ground game proved dominant, with running backs Jaydon Blue and Quintrevion Wisner combining for 256 yards and four touchdowns. Blue's explosive 77-yard touchdown run late in the fourth quarter sealed the victory for Texas, halting Clemson's comeback attempt.

While Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik put up impressive numbers – 336 passing yards and three touchdowns – the Tigers' offense ultimately couldn't match the Longhorns' firepower. Clemson receiver T.J. Moore was a standout performer, hauling in nine receptions for 116 yards and a touchdown.

Despite a late surge that saw them narrow the deficit to seven points, Clemson's comeback hopes were dashed by key defensive stops by Texas, including a crucial fourth-down stand inside their own one-yard line. The Longhorns' victory improves home teams to a perfect 3-0 record in the newly expanded 12-team playoff format.

Next up for Texas is a Peach Bowl matchup against Big 12 champion Arizona State on New Year's Day. The final first-round game features Tennessee and Ohio State in Columbus.