It feels like forever ago that the Clemson Tigers were one of the premier programs in college football, producing top-end NFL talent such as Deshaun Watson and Trevor Lawrence. Seemingly, the introduction of NIL and the transfer portal has removed Clemson from the upper echelon of college football, as head coach Dabo Swinney has been unwilling to adapt as much as other programs.
Instead, Swinney has been committed to developing his recruits and assistants, electing not to fully embrace the modern era of college football, which looks more and more like a professional sport every year.
“That’s my calling in life,” Swinney said after a loss to the Penn State Nittany Lions in the Pinstripe Bowl, according to Yahoo Sports. “That’s my purpose. I know everybody wants me to win football games, but it’s more about how I win. That’s what matters to me more than anything. Always has.
“It’s never been anything different, never will be. That’s my purpose in life: Glorify God, be a great husband and father, and use this platform of football and education to build great men through this game I love.”
Unfortunately for the Tigers, this has led to the Tigers no longer being able to compete with other schools at the highest level, such as the Ohio State Buckeyes, whom seemingly have unlimited resources for their football programs.
However, it appears Swinney is changing his tune somewhat, as he is moving on from longtime assistant coach Mickey Conn, according to one of college football’s premier insiders.
Sources: Clemson OC Garrett Riley and veteran assistant Mickey Conn will not return.
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) December 29, 2025
Conn had been with the program since 2016. It’ll be interesting to see what other changes Swinney makes ahead of the new season.
About Qwame Skinner
Qwame Skinner has loved both writing and sports his entire life. In addition to his sports coverage at Comeback Media, Qwame writes novels, and his debut; The First Casualty, an adult fantasy, is out now.