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yesterday

Swinney Tells Critics to 'Send Me on My Way' as Clemson Falls to 1-2 and Drops From Top 25

Offensive line injuries plus turnovers have stalled Clemson's offense, narrowing its playoff path.

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Sep 13, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Clemson Tigers head coach Dabo Swinney on the sideline against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets in the first quarter at Bobby Dodd Stadium at Hyundai Field. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images/File Photo
Image
Sep 13, 2025; Atlanta, Georgia, USA; Clemson Tigers head coach Dabo Swinney prepares to run on the field with his team before a game against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets at Bobby Dodd Stadium at Hyundai Field. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images/File Photo

Overview

  • Clemson opened 1-2 with losses to LSU (17-10) and Georgia Tech (24-21) and a rallying win over Troy (27-16), falling out of the AP Top 25 for the first time this season.
  • Dabo Swinney delivered an extended defense of his tenure, saying critics could “send me on my way” and vowing he would coach elsewhere if Clemson moved on.
  • Coaches and analysts have zeroed in on the offensive line as the core problem, with injuries to LT Tristan Leigh and G Elyjah Thurmon and PFF grades of 54.3 in pass protection vs. LSU and 53.8 in run blocking vs. Georgia Tech.
  • Cade Klubnik has three interceptions through three games and the Tigers have five turnovers, while the run game has lagged since Phil Mafah’s departure despite recent bursts from Adam Randall.
  • Next up is Syracuse at home, and most projections suggest Clemson must stack wins the rest of the way — likely with help — to reenter the ACC and College Football Playoff races.