Dabo Swinney faces crucial decisions following Clemson’s narrow 24-20 victory over Pitt on Saturday. While the win kept their slim ACC Championship hopes alive, it highlighted growing frustration with the program’s recent performance.
The Tigers have only claimed one ACC title in the past three years, and their playoff aspirations this season are hanging by a thread. Despite leading 17-7 at halftime, Clemson’s offense faltered in the second half, and the defense allowed Pitt to score 13 unanswered points, taking a 20-17 lead with 1:36 left.
However, quarterback Cade Klubnik and the offense came through in the final moments, with Klubnik connecting with Antonio Williams for an 18-yard gain before rushing for a 50-yard touchdown, securing a 24-20 win.
Despite the victory, many Clemson fans are calling for significant changes within the program. There are growing demands for coaching adjustments, particularly for Defensive Coordinator Wes Goodwin and Wide Receivers Coach Tyler Grisham, as well as a push for increased use of the Transfer Portal to strengthen the roster. Injuries have also taken a toll, with key players like left tackle Tristan Leigh, left guard Marcus Tate, and linebacker Wade Woodaz sidelined.
Though the win maintained a 7-1 ACC record, it’s clear that many fans are not satisfied with the current state of the program. Swinney’s response to the growing discontent may hinge on how the remainder of the season unfolds. With a matchup against The Citadel next weekend and the in-state rivalry against South Carolina to follow, Clemson still has a chance, albeit a slim one, to make it to the ACC Championship and the College Football Playoff.
Nevertheless, changes to the program seem increasingly likely this offseason.
Leave a Reply