Clemson football's 2024 season concluded with disappointment and promise as the Tigers fell to Texas 38-24 during the first round of the College Football Playoff (CFP) on Saturday. Despite the loss, Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney expressed optimism for what lies ahead for the program.
After the game at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium, Swinney reflected on the end of the season, noting the incredible resilience shown by his team throughout the year. "It's pretty special. Again, it stinks, but we'll build on this. This will be just another step in the direction we want to go to get back to the top of the mountain," he said. The Tigers, which had high aspirations of contending for national championships, struggled to stop Texas's impressive rushing attack, allowing 292 rushing yards, something Swinney acknowledged as key to securing the win.
The season had its share of ups and downs, but wrapping it up with the ACC Championship win showcased the potential of this Clemson team. "We got one offensive lineman we are losing: Marcus Tate. All the guys are back and then some," Swinney highlighted. Despite graduating notable players including tight end Jake Briningstool and linebacker Barrett Carter, many key contributors are expected to return for the 2025 season.
Quarterback Cade Klubnik, who had another strong showing against Texas with 336 yards passing and three touchdowns, is one of those pivotal figures. Swinney commended his leadership and performance, stating, "He’s just a competitor... He’s one of the guys who spoke up and said this is the most fun he’s ever had playing football." This connection between players and coaches has instilled hope for future success.
Nevertheless, Swinney was frank about the areas needing improvement, particularly on defense, which had faced challenges all season long. "We’ve got to improve everywhere if we want to get to the top," he stated. The run defense, which allowed over 150 yards per game, was highlighted as needing immediate attention. This concern was compounded by the inability to stop explosive plays, like the 77-yard touchdown run Texas executed late in the fourth quarter—a dagger to Clemson's comeback efforts.
But the future isn’t bleak for the Tigers. Swinney expressed confidence not only due to the returning veterans but the depth of young talent coming up. Clemson fans can look forward to seeing the likes of Antonio Williams and Wade Woodaz back on the field, potentially bolstering both the offense and defense. "We know we’re going to lose Payton Page, but everyone else is back. We got a lot of great young linebackers who grew up this year," said Swinney, emphasizing the team’s foundation for building upon.
Looking forward, Clemson's coaching staff will need to finalize their plans for the offseason, particularly concerning potential transfers and recruits, unearthing possibilities to fill gaps left by departing players. The potential addition of transfer players for key positions may help address weaknesses and add depth to the roster.
Off the field, there is uncertainty surrounding the decisions of several players. Seniors like Briningstool, who leaves as one of Clemson's all-time leading tight ends with 127 receptions and 1,380 yards, will surely be missed. His performance not only contributed to the team's success but also set the stage for future tight ends at Clemson.
Meanwhile, Carter finishes his career with significant accolades, including being named a finalist for the Butkus Award. "My heart really hurts for [the seniors] because it was never - actually never until they got the stop right there at the end - did I think we were going to win the game," Swinney said, reflecting on the bond developed across the season.
After capturing the ACC Championship trophy, the team now aims at recapturing its former glory within college football. The bars set by historical success loom large over this program, and fans expect elite performance both on the field and as contenders for the national title.
While the loss to Texas stings and the reality of departure weighs heavy, the ethos within the locker room remains potent, with Swinney underscoring the culture and integrity: "I promise you, the example these seniors set for the team coming back will not be wasted. These guys are going to do amazing things." Under his leadership, the Tigers will look to evolve, adapt, and thrive again next season.
