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The ESPN cameras were rolling when, a few minutes after learning of their ranking and their destination and their CFP semifinal opponent, Clemson's coaches and players were congratulated on a rare feat.

Dabo Swinney, no doubt with the help of stat laureate Tim Bourret, discovered that Clemson is the first team since 1966 to start No. 1 and finish No. 3 after going undefeated.