Clemson Football is back in the national spotlight. After a disappointing loss to Georgia to open the season, Dabo Swinney’s squad has reeled off four straight impressive victories, catapulting them to the #10 spot in the latest AP Poll.
Clemson’s meteoric rise has been fueled by a high-powered offense that is firing on all cylinders. In their statement win over Florida State, the Tigers racked up 500 total yards, with a balanced attack of 235 yards through the air and 265 on the ground. Quarterback Cade Klubnik has been sensational during the winning streak, completing 74-of-114 passes for 1,077 yards with 14 touchdowns and just one interception. Klubnik’s dual-threat abilities were on full display against the Seminoles, as he added 62 rushing yards and tied the school record for career passing touchdowns.
The ground game has been equally potent, led by running back Phil Mafah’s season-high 154 yards. Clemson’s offensive explosion is becoming the norm, as they have won their last four contests by an average margin of 28 points and recorded three 500-yard performances during that span.
While the offense has grabbed the headlines, Clemson’s defense has been equally stout. The Tigers held Florida State to a paltry 22 rushing yards, the fifth time in the last 10 meetings they have limited the Seminoles to under 25 yards on the ground. Clemson’s ability to stifle opponents and control games has been a hallmark of Swinney’s tenure, with the Tigers boasting an incredible 139-4 record when leading after three quarters since 2011.
At 4-1, Clemson has put themselves in prime position to make a run at an ACC title and College Football Playoff berth. The road won’t be easy, but if history is any indication, bet against the Tigers at your own risk. Clemson has been a model of consistency, going an astounding 98-13 in regular season play since 2015. Swinney has built a powerhouse program that reloads rather than rebuilds, as evidenced by the Tigers’ 37 road wins since 2015, tied for the most in the nation.
The victory over Florida State was significant for Dabo Swinney, as it was his 174th career win leading an ACC program, surpassing Bobby Bowden for the conference record. Swinney also moved past College Football Hall of Famers Robert Neyland and Frank Solich on the all-time wins list.
The college football world is officially on notice. The Clemson Tigers have awoken from their early season slumber and look poised to pounce on the national stage again. With a surging offense, stingy defense, and championship pedigree, Clemson is a team no one wants to face come playoff time.
