In past years, Dabo Swinney and the Clemson football crew were known for their strong offense, especially when Deshaun Watson and Trevor Lawrence led the team. But since Lawrence left for the NFL, the team hasn’t been as impressive.
However, things might change in 2024. Cade Klubnik is starting his second year as the main quarterback, and how well he improves is crucial for Clemson’s success. Also, Garrett Riley, in his second year directing the offense, is expected to bring the same kind of positive impact he had at TCU, where he helped them reach the National Championship.
There are many uncertainties heading into the 2024 season, but Clemson can potentially surprise everyone. While some are higher on the Tigers post-spring, 247Sports is not one of them. According to their latest ACC power rankings, Clemson is the No. 4 team in the ACC heading into the 2024 season.
This is going into my “overreaction” category from spring football. The Tigers should be a better team than they were in 2023, and that team was a play or two away from winning the ACC… but should we expect them to fall behind Miami and NC State? Sorry, I’m not buying that.
This is a classic overreaction from spring football, but I’d be lying if I said I didn’t expect this. Klubnik was underwhelming, and people took note, but one spring performance doesn’t make or break a player. There’s a reason that Clemson is tied with Florida State as a betting favorite to win the ACC. The Tigers are a better team than Miami and NC State, and I would argue they’re better than FSU.