Former Clemson standout Andrew Mukuba just made an unforgettable play to send his new team, the Texas Longhorns, to the semifinals of the inaugural 12-team College Football Playoff. In a thrilling Peach Bowl showdown in Atlanta, Mukuba picked off Arizona State quarterback Sam Leavitt in the second overtime, sealing the victory and propelling Texas to face the Rose Bowl winner in the Cotton Bowl.
Mukuba, who starred at Clemson from 2021 to 2023, was a standout from day one. He made an immediate impact, earning ACC Defensive Freshman of the Year honors in 2021 with 47 tackles, a sack, and multiple passes defended. After three seasons and 35 games, Mukuba transferred to Texas, and his 2024 season has been nothing short of spectacular, with career highs of 55 tackles and 4 interceptions.
Mukuba played a pivotal role in helping Texas defeat Clemson in the first round of the College Football Playoff, with three tackles and a pass defended in the Longhorns’ 38-24 win. While Clemson fans may feel the sting of losing a key defender, there’s still pride in watching Mukuba shine on the big stage.
A Texas native, Mukuba was a highly sought-after recruit, committing to Clemson over offers from elite programs like Texas and Alabama. Ranked as the No. 8 safety in the 2021 class, his journey from top recruit to clutch playmaker has been extraordinary.
With his eyes on the NFL and a Senior Bowl invite in hand, Mukuba’s story is far from over. Keep an eye on this former Tiger as he continues to make game-changing plays and take Texas to new heights!
