Clemson leads the nation in returning production, including 86% of their offensive production and 75% of their defense. This continuity is exceptionally rare for a program consistently sending players to the NFL. Clemson's offensive line returns four of five starters and ranks among Pro Football Focus's top 10 nationally. Senior quarterback Cade Klubnik is back after an impressive 2024 season, where he passed for 3,639 yards and 36 touchdowns while throwing only six interceptions. The receiving corps is loaded with talent. Antonio Williams had 75 catches for 941 yards and 11 touchdowns; T.J. Moore had 45 receptions for 651 yards and five touchdowns; and Bryant Wesco had 41 catches for 578 yards and five touchdowns.
Adding defensive coordinator Tom Allen represents Clemson's most significant upgrade. Allen has 33 years of coaching experience and most recently led Penn State's defense to a No. 7 national ranking in total defense. His aggressive 4-2-5 scheme better suits Clemson's personnel than the previous 4-3 base defense. The defensive line features two potential first-round NFL draft picks in T.J. Parker and Peter Woods. Despite playing out of position at defensive end in 2024, Woods earned an 83.3 PFF grade and leads all returning Power Four interior defenders in run-defense grade (89.7%). Parker recorded 11 sacks and six forced fumbles while earning preseason All-American recognition.
Dabo Swinney's track record strongly supports exceeding 9.5 wins. Over his 16-year tenure, Clemson has reached at least 10 wins in 12 of 13 seasons, with only the 2023 campaign (9-4) falling short. The Tigers' trajectory mirrors their 2022 season, when they bounced back from a disappointing 2021 to win 11 games and capture the ACC Championship.
Jeff’s Best Bet: Clemson Tigers to win ACC (+110)
Jeff’s Prefered Bet: Clemson Tigers OVER 9.5 (-200)
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