Clemson Tigers vs
SMU MustangsPredictions & Preview

Clemson Tigers and SMU Mustangs Set to Clash in Crucial ACC Matchup, Clemson Favored to Win

In an upcoming matchup between the Clemson Tigers (21-5, 13-2 ACC) and the SMU Mustangs (20-6, 11-4 ACC), both teams near the top of the league standings will face off for the first time this season. Clemson is coming off a strong road win over Florida State, while SMU also secured a win on the road against Notre Dame. The game is set for 4:00 EST on the ACC Network, with Clemson opening as the betting favorite at -1.5 and the current line sitting at Clemson -2.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Tigers -124 | Mustangs +104
• Spread: Tigers -2 (-110) | Mustangs +2 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 145.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Clemson will win straight-up is 55%.

Clemson vs SMU Stats

Clemson Tigers

Clemson Tigers have had an impressive season, highlighted by a significant win against #2 Duke. They have since continued their success with victories over North Carolina and Florida State. Led by top scorers Dillon Hunter and Ian Schieffelin, the team has shown strength both offensively and defensively. Currently ranked 23rd overall according to KenPom, Clemson is projected to be a 6-seed in the NCAA Tournament. In terms of offensive performance, the Tigers shoot well from the field and beyond the arc, ranking 91st in offense and 13th in three-point shooting. Defensively, they have held opponents to a low shooting percentage and rank 39th in defense. With a record of 21-5 this season, Clemson is a team to watch in the upcoming tournament.

SMU Mustangs Analysis

The SMU Mustangs are currently in 4th place in the ACC, but face uncertainty in securing a spot in the NCAA Tournament due to the conference's weaker-than-usual standing this season. Bracketology projects only four ACC teams to make it to the Big Dance, with SMU currently listed as the "First Four Out." Led by players like Kario Oquendo, Boopie Miller, and Matt Cross, the team has a balanced scoring attack and strong offensive performance. Defensively, they have areas for improvement, ranking lower in defensive efficiency and allowing a higher field goal percentage compared to top teams. As they aim for an at-large berth in the NCAA Tournament, SMU needs to secure more wins and strengthen their overall performance.

Clemson Basketball Dominates Conference Play, SMU Struggles Against Top-Tier Teams

Southern Methodist University (SMU) has demonstrated notable success in conference play, particularly against lower-ranked teams. However, the team has struggled against top-tier competition within the ACC, where Clemson has established a strong presence. SMU faced a significant defeat against Duke, losing by 27 points, while Clemson managed to secure a victory against the same opponent. SMU also faced losses against North Carolina, Louisville, and Wake Forest, with their most notable win against Notre Dame as slight underdogs. Clemson's strength lies in their skilled frontcourt players, Schieffelin and Lahkin, who excel in both rim protection and offensive versatility. On the other hand, SMU's defense ranks 67th in efficiency and will face a challenge against Clemson's 19th-ranked offense. Furthermore, Clemson boasts a leading scorer in Hunter, averaging 17.0 points per game, while SMU lacks a standout scorer with no player averaging more than 13.5 points per game. Considering Clemson's strengths inside and their potent scorer, they are favored to cover the spread in this matchup, enhancing their tournament resume.

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