Matt Luke on Clemson: 'If I'm gonna do it, that's the place I want to do it'

In December, as Clemson prepared for its Gator Bowl matchup against Kentucky, a significant change was made to the coaching staff. Matt Luke, with over two decades of experience coaching offensive lines, joined Dabo Swinney’s staff, replacing former player and coach Thomas Austin. While it couldn’t have been an easy decision for Swinney, the addition of Luke brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to the Tigers' offensive line.

Luke's coaching resume is impressive. Before joining Clemson, he served as the assistant head coach and offensive line coach at Georgia from 2020-21, where he helped lead the Bulldogs to an outstanding 22-3 record. His efforts were instrumental in guiding Georgia to its first national championship (2021) in 41 years. 

Prior to his stint at Georgia, Luke was the head coach at Ole Miss from 2017-19, adding head coaching experience to his already rich coaching background. Luke's connection to Ole Miss runs deep, as he also played for the Rebels from 1995-98.

Speaking to the media at the Allen N. Reeves Football Complex earlier this week, Luke expressed his excitement and enthusiasm about joining Swinney’s staff.

“That's why I'm here; I love relationships. I love building. I love being in that o-line room with those relationships—just the building and helping take a young man to where he doesn't even think he could go. That's the part I enjoy—the locker room,” Luke said, emphasizing his passion for coaching and mentorship.

Clemson Sports Talk

Matt Luke coaching during Clemson’s spring game in April.

His comments reflect a genuine appreciation for the culture that’s been built in Clemson.

“Yesterday was the first day back in the office; the camaraderie with the staff is the part that I really missed, and that's the part that you love. That's what college football is, and to be part of this Clemson culture—like everybody talks about—they have all these keywords and phrases about Clemson and their culture—but it's real, and it's fun to be a part of it.”

Luke shared that he had received several coaching inquiries before joining Clemson, but Swinney's call reignited his passion.

“I think you get a couple of calls, and you're like, nah, I don't want to do this. But there was something when Dabo called me—there was a pause—and I was like, you know what, if I'm gonna do it, that's the place I want to do it.”

Luke’s commitment to bringing energy and passion to his role is clear, and his addition appears to be well-received.

“I'm just excited. I enjoy being a part of this culture, and I really want to help get this thing back—because they've been really good. I think people paint the narrative, ‘Oh, they haven't been really, really good.’ There's been a long sustained period of success, but I just want to come in and try to provide maybe that little 1% that could help get them to get a little bit better.”

Known for his enthusiastic and energetic coaching style, Luke aims to lead by example for his players in the trenches.

“I'm a people person. I enjoy that part, but I would say passion, energy—that’s it to me. I can't ask those guys to bring it unless I bring it, so hopefully, when people see me on the field they see energy—they see enthusiasm—they see somebody that loves coaching and loves being around the guys,” Luke explained.

He also highlighted the authenticity of Clemson's culture under Swinney's leadership.

“I would say (it’s) real. I would say that from the outside looking in, you're like, ‘Man, is that really real? Can they really do that?’ Being here, I would say 100% real and authentic. Not being scared to do it the way that you've done it and to have that sustained period of success? Like it's unbelievable what Dabo has accomplished. I'm excited to be a part of it and trying to get it back to where we all want it to be.”

Given his previous success in the region, it will also be interesting to follow his role as a recruiter. The Tigers currently have three offensive linemen committed but missed on several key targets in the 2025 class. Luke’s impact on the next cycle—after having a year to build relationships—should tell a different story. It’s a story Tiger fans look forward to following, as they anticipate the positive changes and renewed energy Luke will bring to Clemson’s offensive line and recruiting efforts.

With Luke now on board, Clemson’s offensive line is set to benefit from his extensive experience and passionate approach to coaching. 

Shop at Alumni Hall: Clemson Southern Tide Desmond Stripe Performance Polo