My tips:

Forget the plastic tools.

I used a safety razor blade on the side seam to provide the initial opening, then worked the metal spudger around the clips from side to top.

Then popped it halfway back in and did the same procedure with the other side and bottom. Pop and pry, had the whole thing open in 15 minutes, no bent clips or case.

Also skipped the headphone jack disconnect, no need.

Thanks ifixit! Got my ipod back and working flawless!!