Here are the three biggest X-Factors for the Clemson Tigers to upset the Miami Hurricanes.
The Clemson Tigers have turned their 2026 season around after a brutal Week 1 performance against LSU.
Since then, the Tigers have won three straight games, with the defense playing lights out. Clemson has only allowed 12.3 points per game since they gave up 51 to LSU, showing a strong sense of fight.
But heading into this week's game against the Miami Hurricanes, the Tigers will be facing a different type of challenger. Miami is the No. 4-ranked team in the country, and they are strong on both sides of the ball.
Clemson has the tools to pull off the upset this week, but this team will be trying to make it happen. But here are the three biggest X-Factors for the Tigers to earn the win this week:
1. Clemson's Secondary Holds Up
While the Hurricanes do have a high-powered offensive attack, Clemson does have a strong secondary it can counter with. Ashton Hampton is one of the best cornerbacks in the entire country, and he could cause some fits for Miami.
The Tigers also have Elliot Washington II, Jerome Varter III, and others to make life tough on the Hurricanes. If the Clemson secondary can hold up against the offense, it could give this team just enough of a chance to grab the win.
2. Tait Reynolds Limits the Turnovers
Asking a freshman quarterback to face a defense like Miami isn't normally the recipe for success. But it's where the Tigers are at entering this game against the Hurricanes.
If Reynolds can limit the turnovers, Clemson will have a chance to win the game. Reynolds has thrown for 521 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions so far this year, and he will be one of the biggest reasons for the outcome of this game, no matter which way it goes.
3. Dabo Swinney Outcoaches Mario Cristobal
It wasn't too long ago that Swinney was seen as a top coach in college football. After all, Swinney has led Clemson to two championships, and that has to count for something.
If Swinney can outcoach Miami head coach Mario Cristobal in this game, the Tigers will have a chance. Swinney still knows what he is doing, and he has been in so many big games over his career.
While Swinney has seen it all during his career, and he should have his guys ready to go. This could be a chance for the veteran coach to make a statement about his status around the nation if Clemson can get a win.
