This next season, McQueen and the Clemson Tigers will play an exciting game against conference foe Miami (FL).

As the new college football season approaches, fans across the nation are eagerly awaiting the clash between two of the most electrifying programs in the ACC — the Clemson Tigers and the Miami Hurricanes. This matchup promises to be a thrilling one, with both teams boasting top-tier talent and high expectations for the season. With Clemson’s dynamic quarterback, McQueen, leading the offense, and Miami aiming to continue its resurgence under head coach Mario Cristobal, this game has all the makings of a classic.

The rivalry between Clemson and Miami has developed into one of the most intense and competitive in the ACC over the past few seasons. Both programs have a rich history of success, and this year’s game is shaping up to be another critical showdown that could have significant implications for the ACC Championship race and the College Football Playoff picture. In this article, we will delve into what makes this matchup so exciting, the key players to watch, and how each team’s strengths and weaknesses might play out on the field.

Clemson Tigers: A Dominant Force Led by McQueen

For Clemson, the 2025 season is one filled with high expectations, and much of that optimism revolves around the play of their quarterback, McQueen. The young signal-caller has already established himself as one of the most promising quarterbacks in the country, and his performance this season will be pivotal to the Tigers’ success. Known for his powerful arm, quick release, and mobility, McQueen has all the tools necessary to lead Clemson’s offense to another championship run.

McQueen enters the season with a solid supporting cast of skilled players, including a deep group of wide receivers and a strong offensive line. However, it is McQueen’s ability to make plays both in the pocket and on the move that will make him a dangerous weapon against Miami’s defense. His dynamic skill set allows him to stretch the field with deep throws while also being able to escape pressure and create plays when the pocket breaks down. For Clemson to have success against Miami, McQueen will need to be efficient, poised, and take advantage of his opportunities to make explosive plays.

In addition to McQueen, Clemson’s defense remains one of the top units in the country, featuring a ferocious front seven and an experienced secondary. The Tigers have always prided themselves on their ability to control the line of scrimmage and generate pressure on the quarterback, and this year will be no different. Miami’s offense, led by quarterback Tyler Van Dyke and a talented group of playmakers, will have its hands full with Clemson’s defensive line.

As the Tigers prepare for this crucial game, one of their key objectives will be to establish a balanced attack on offense. If McQueen can get the running game going early, it will open up play-action opportunities, allowing him to take shots downfield and put pressure on Miami’s secondary. Clemson’s offensive line will also need to maintain its dominance in the trenches, protecting McQueen and creating running lanes for the backs.

Miami Hurricanes: A Resilient Squad with High Expectations

On the other side of the field, the Miami Hurricanes enter the season with renewed confidence, buoyed by the leadership of head coach Mario Cristobal. Under Cristobal’s direction, Miami has worked hard to reestablish itself as a powerhouse in the ACC, and with an experienced quarterback in Tyler Van Dyke and a talented supporting cast, the Hurricanes have a legitimate shot at competing for an ACC Championship.

Van Dyke, who had an impressive 2024 campaign, is the key to Miami’s offense. Known for his poise in the pocket and ability to make throws at all levels of the field, Van Dyke has all the tools to be a difference-maker in this game. Miami will need to rely on his accuracy and decision-making to counter Clemson’s aggressive defense. To have success against the Tigers, Van Dyke will need to be able to read Clemson’s defensive schemes and make quick, decisive throws to exploit any weaknesses in their coverage.

Supporting Van Dyke in the backfield is one of the best running back duos in the ACC. Miami’s ability to establish a consistent running game will be critical in keeping Clemson’s defense off balance and preventing them from keying in on the passing game. If Miami’s running backs can break through the Tigers’ defensive line, it will create opportunities for play-action passes and help neutralize Clemson’s pass rush.

Miami’s defense, while still a work in progress, has shown flashes of brilliance. The Hurricanes have made strides in recent years to improve their defensive depth and physicality, and this year’s squad will look to build on that foundation. Against a high-powered offense like Clemson’s, Miami will need to play disciplined football and avoid giving up big plays. The Hurricanes’ secondary, led by standout cornerback Tyrique Stevenson, will be tested early and often by McQueen’s arm, and their ability to contain the Tigers’ wideouts will be critical in keeping the game competitive.

Key Matchups to Watch

1. McQueen vs. Miami’s Secondary

Clemson’s success will ultimately depend on the play of McQueen, and how he fares against Miami’s secondary will be one of the most intriguing storylines in this game. Miami’s defensive backs are among the best in the ACC, but McQueen’s ability to throw deep and stretch the field could put immense pressure on them. The Hurricanes’ secondary will need to be disciplined and avoid getting beat on deep routes, while also being physical at the line of scrimmage to disrupt Clemson’s receivers’ timing.

2. Miami’s Offensive Line vs. Clemson’s Defensive Front

One of the most important battles of this game will take place in the trenches, where Miami’s offensive line will face off against Clemson’s defensive line. The Tigers are known for their ferocious pass rush, and if they can pressure Van Dyke early and often, it could disrupt the Hurricanes’ offensive rhythm. Miami’s offensive line will need to give Van Dyke enough time to survey the field and allow the running game to develop. Conversely, Clemson’s defensive line, led by some of the best pass rushers in the country, will be looking to wreak havoc and force turnovers.

3. Tyler Van Dyke vs. Clemson’s Pass Rush

Tyler Van Dyke’s ability to read defenses and make quick decisions will be put to the test against Clemson’s aggressive pass rush. If Van Dyke can effectively manage the pocket and get rid of the ball quickly, Miami will be in a good position to succeed. However, if Clemson can disrupt his timing and force him to scramble or make hurried throws, it will play right into the Tigers’ hands.

4. Clemson’s Running Game vs. Miami’s Front Seven

Both teams boast dynamic running games, and whoever can establish dominance on the ground will likely have the upper hand. Clemson’s ground attack is led by talented running back Will Shipley, who is known for his ability to break tackles and make big plays. Miami’s front seven will need to key in on Shipley and make sure he doesn’t get loose, while also trying to prevent McQueen from making plays with his legs. If Miami can slow down Clemson’s running game, it will force the Tigers to rely more on the passing game, which could play into the Hurricanes’ favor.

What This Game Means for the ACC and the College Football Playoff Race

The Clemson vs. Miami matchup is not just important for bragging rights within the ACC, but also for the broader picture of the College Football Playoff race. Both teams are expected to be in the mix for a spot in the four-team playoff, and a victory in this game could go a long way toward securing that berth.

For Clemson, a win over a high-quality opponent like Miami would further solidify their standing as a top contender in the ACC and nationally. As defending ACC champions, the Tigers have their sights set on another conference title and a spot in the playoff, and defeating Miami would give them a significant edge in the race.

For Miami, a win over Clemson would be a massive statement that they are back among the elite teams in the ACC. With Cristobal at the helm, the Hurricanes are looking to reclaim their place at the top of the conference, and a win over Clemson would signal that they are ready to challenge for the ACC Championship and a potential playoff spot.