I think we can all agree that if the defense rises to the standard of past great defensive years 2025 should be Clemson's best shot at winning it all since TL left. OL should be better than last year; QB is top 3 in the country depending on which sports talking heads are speaking. The WR group is the most talented in years. RB by committee should take just enough heat off the passing game and who knows maybe the freshman shows out and surprises us all. I truly have zero concerns with the offensive side of the ball. My only wish is that they develop a killer instinct, and Cade doesn't get to play in any 4th quarters all season long.
Defensively the infusion of a simplified scheme, attention to detail in tackling, playing loose and our formidable front 7 should result in a much more physical brand of football. I have reservations with the DB's, but I've always thought that an aggressive, attacking front 7 can hide some backend deficiencies. All of this adds up to what I consider final 4 or bust with a legit shot at winning it all.
With that said, as good as this year looks it makes me wonder about the following season. New QB, losses across the OL, heavy hitters on the DL gone to the NFL, Woodaz gone (I believe he will be missed more than many think). Basically, everything that makes this year's team a potential winner (save the WR's) will be either a weakness or an unknown for the 2026 season. A rebuilding year to be sure IMHO. This is why I am beyond excited for the 2025 season to get started. We will learn a ton the first game of the season. I'll go ahead and predict a 13-point Clemson win over the losers from LSU, the first step on Clemson's way to redemption. Can't wait to hear Dabo's speech after they hand him the trophy, it will be epic.
Defensively the infusion of a simplified scheme, attention to detail in tackling, playing loose and our formidable front 7 should result in a much more physical brand of football. I have reservations with the DB's, but I've always thought that an aggressive, attacking front 7 can hide some backend deficiencies. All of this adds up to what I consider final 4 or bust with a legit shot at winning it all.
With that said, as good as this year looks it makes me wonder about the following season. New QB, losses across the OL, heavy hitters on the DL gone to the NFL, Woodaz gone (I believe he will be missed more than many think). Basically, everything that makes this year's team a potential winner (save the WR's) will be either a weakness or an unknown for the 2026 season. A rebuilding year to be sure IMHO. This is why I am beyond excited for the 2025 season to get started. We will learn a ton the first game of the season. I'll go ahead and predict a 13-point Clemson win over the losers from LSU, the first step on Clemson's way to redemption. Can't wait to hear Dabo's speech after they hand him the trophy, it will be epic.
