Tiger Talk: Your Weekly Recap of Clemson's Biggest News
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Dabo Swinney says OL Collin Sadler 'is going to play starter reps' for Clemson
The article highlights key updates from Clemson football, including Chapman Pendergrass receiving the team's one available scholarship, and Phil Mafah serving as kick returner due to his reliability in high-pressure situations. Dabo Swinney discussed the linebacker depth, praising Kobe McCloud's dependability and limited need for substitutions in the last game. He also noted the positive impact of more coaches on game preparation and special teams, which has improved from last season. Finally, Swinney praised Collin Sadler's versatility and performance on the offensive line, viewing him as a starter despite not always starting games.
Navarro on Clemson: 'They've taken a step back to what they were before Dabo got there'
Clemson’s season opener against top-ranked Georgia ended in a disappointing 34-3 blowout, raising concerns about the state of the football program. Manny Navarro of The Athletic voiced his worries on SiriusXM, suggesting Clemson might be an eight-win team and no longer boasts the depth or playmakers that once defined their dominance. Navarro pointed to Dabo Swinney's reluctance to embrace the transfer portal as a key issue, arguing it limits Clemson’s ability to stay competitive. With Clemson now 8-7 in their last 15 Power Five matchups, Navarro believes the program has regressed to its pre-Swinney era, and their upcoming game against Appalachian State will be a critical test.
Recap: Tiger Sports Hour with Dabo Swinney
During the "Tiger Sports Hour with Dabo Swinney," Swinney discussed Appalachian State's reputation as a respected football team that can cause confusion with their defensive movement. Reflecting on the Georgia game, he praised his team's leadership and emphasized their potential for success, despite the third-quarter breakdown. Swinney highlighted strong performances by the offensive and defensive lines, specifically mentioning Demonte Capehart and Peter Woods. He expressed confidence in the freshman wide receivers, especially Wesco and T.J. Moore, and shared details about Clemson's pregame routines for different kickoff times.
Swinney on App State: 'They definitely have our full attention'
Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney expressed excitement for the upcoming night game at home against Appalachian State, emphasizing the rarity of such opportunities. He acknowledged the challenge posed by App State, praising their culture and history of top 25 wins. Swinney stressed the need for Clemson to clean up mistakes from their Georgia game while maintaining toughness and physicality. Reflecting on the Georgia loss, he highlighted the exposure of key areas against elite talent, seeing it as a valuable learning experience. Swinney dismissed concerns about Florida State’s struggles, focusing solely on improving and securing a win against App State.
Wide Receivers Underwhelm: Clemson Searching for Answers in the Downfield Passing Game (CST+)
Clemson football is grappling with a lack of production from its wide receivers, a problem highlighted in their season opener against Georgia. Despite high expectations for veterans like Adam Randall and Cole Turner, their minimal impact—just one reception for a single yard—left fans disappointed. Freshman receivers Bryant Wesco and T.J. Moore, seen as the future of Clemson's passing game, were also limited in their involvement. While Antonio Williams and Tyler Brown contributed, the overall performance from the group has sparked scrutiny of wide receivers coach Tyler Grisham. With the offense struggling to find rhythm and creativity, head coach Dabo Swinney acknowledged the need for adjustments, emphasizing that the team will continue to evaluate its playmakers as they aim to reignite their passing attack.
Swinney Dismisses Talent Gap Narrative After Clemson's Blowout Loss to Georgia
Clemson opened its season with a tough 34-3 loss to top-ranked Georgia in the Aflac Kickoff Game, amplifying concerns about the Tigers' place among college football's elite. Despite being outgained 447 to 188 in total yards, head coach Dabo Swinney emphasized that Clemson physically matched up well against the Bulldogs. Swinney acknowledged the game slipped away in the second half due to key mistakes but remains optimistic about the team’s potential, believing the experience against Georgia will help them improve. As Clemson prepares to face App State, Swinney is focused on resilience and moving forward, encouraging fans to remain hopeful for the season ahead.
