Klubnik's Last Shot at a National Title?

For the first time in years, the Clemson Tigers are heading into a season where expectations aren’t just high—they’re national championship or bust. After a strong 10-4 finish in 2024, an ACC title, and a return to the College Football Playoff, the pressure is mounting. But with a more experienced roster, a new defensive coordinator, and the expanded 12-team playoff format, is 2025 the year Clemson finally gets back to the top?

ESPN's Greg McElroy: 'Clemson is All-In'

On a recent episode of Always College Football, ESPN’s Greg McElroy didn’t mince words—"This is a make-or-break season for Clemson." The Tigers have been building toward this moment, patiently developing young talent over the past few years. Now, that talent is seasoned, battle-tested, and ready to take the next step.

Key reasons McElroy believes Clemson is all-in:

• Cade Klubnik in Year 4: The former five-star quarterback enters his fourth season with high expectations. We've seen flashes of brilliance, but 2025 is the year he needs to prove he can lead Clemson back to the national spotlight.
• Veteran Offensive Line: After years of inconsistency, Clemson’s offensive line returns key starters, providing much-needed stability for Klubnik and the running game.
• Revamped Defense Under Tom Allen: Clemson made headlines by hiring Tom Allen as defensive coordinator—a move McElroy calls a “clear indicator that Dabo Swinney is pushing all the chips in.” Allen’s aggressive defensive schemes could be the X-factor Clemson needs.

Can Clemson Compete for a Title?

Clemson’s last appearance in the national championship game was in 2020. Since then, the Tigers have struggled to regain their footing as a perennial powerhouse. But the landscape has shifted—the 12-team playoff format means perfection is no longer required. Even with one or two regular-season losses, Clemson has a legitimate shot at a title run.

Why 2025 is different:

Depth and Experience: Last season’s young stars are now veterans. The wide receivers, offensive line, and defensive backs have all matured, and the team looks stronger across the board.

A New Defensive Identity: Tom Allen’s arrival brings a fresh approach to the defense. Known for his aggressive, hard-nosed style, Allen’s influence could propel Clemson’s defense back into elite territory.

But the biggest question remains—can Cade Klubnik lead this team to a championship? The tools are there, but his development will ultimately determine Clemson’s fate.

Recruiting Wars: Clemson vs. South Carolina for Kentavion 'Polo' Anderson

While Clemson prepares for a high-stakes season, the Tigers are also engaged in a fierce recruiting battle with their in-state rival, South Carolina, for four-star safety Kentavion ‘Polo’ Anderson.

Who is Kentavion Anderson?

Anderson, a 6’2”, 180-pound safety from Dorman High School, is one of the top defensive backs in the 2026 class. He’s ranked No. 111 overall and No. 11 among safeties nationally. His size, speed, and instincts make him a prized target for both programs.

Clemson’s Edge in the Recruitment

Clemson offered Anderson in December, shortly after he visited Death Valley for the Clemson-South Carolina game. Since then, his relationship with the Tigers has grown stronger. Most notably, Anderson called Clemson his “dream school”, and he’s visited multiple times—including a recent trip where he met new defensive coordinator Tom Allen.

Another visit is scheduled for Junior Day on March 8, and if Clemson can impress him again, they may be able to secure an early commitment.

South Carolina’s Push to Flip the Script

However, Shane Beamer and the Gamecocks aren’t backing down. Anderson has visited Columbia several times, including big home games against LSU and Texas A&M. South Carolina is pitching the opportunity to be a cornerstone of their up-and-coming program.

The X-factor? Anderson has hinted he may not take official visits before deciding. That means unofficial visits this spring could be decisive. His commitment date is set for May 16, and right now, Clemson seems to have the upper hand—but this battle isn’t over yet.

Clemson Baseball: Poised for Omaha?

The Tigers are ranked No. 11 in the preseason Coaches Poll and No. 8 in Baseball America. After a 44-16 record and an ACC Atlantic Division title last season, expectations are sky-high.

Leading the charge is junior outfielder Cam Cannarella, a two-time All-ACC selection who hit .363 last season despite battling injuries. On the mound, sophomore Aidan Knaak is the name to watch—he was named National Freshman Pitcher of the Year in 2024 and holds the Clemson freshman record for strikeouts.

The season opens February 14-16 in Texas at the Shriners Children’s College Showdown, with the home opener on February 19 against Presbyterian.

Clemson Softball: Is This Their Year?

While the baseball team eyes Omaha, Clemson Softball is ready to make waves of its own. Senior second baseman Maddie Moore is the star of the show, ranked as the No. 2 second baseman in the nation by D1Softball.

Moore hit .368 last season and is known for her leadership and consistency. She’ll be the anchor of a team looking to make a deep postseason run. Clemson opens its season this Thursday against Ole Miss in the Paradise Classic.

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And as always, Tiger fans, I’ll see you… at the top of the hill.