By Gene Galin
Charlotte, NC – Clemson football coach Dabo Swinney addressed numerous topics during his breakout session at the ACC Kickoff event on July 25, 2024. Swinney provided insights into the team’s strategy regarding the transfer portal, player retention, and the overall philosophy guiding their recruiting and team management decisions. He emphasized that the evaluation of the transfer portal is a yearly process, considering the roster’s current state and future projections.
“We evaluate every year,” Swinney said. “You see what’s leaving, and you evaluate your roster. You look at who’s coming back and who your projected starters are. You also look at who you’re recruiting. It’s not a decision I make alone; I gather input from a whole staff of very experienced coaches.”
Swinney highlighted Clemson’s strong retention rate and successful recruiting classes as reasons for not heavily relying on the transfer portal. “If you study our team, our retention is as good as anybody in the country. Guys graduate, they stay, and we recruit well,” he noted. Clemson has had 14 consecutive top-15 recruiting classes, which allows them to maintain a robust roster without extensively utilizing the transfer portal.
Transfer Portal: A Strategic Tool, Not a Necessity
Swinney began by discussing Clemson’s cautious approach to the transfer portal. Unlike many programs that heavily utilize the portal to quickly fill gaps, Swinney emphasized Clemson’s focus on evaluating and developing their current roster. “We evaluate every year,” Swinney stated, highlighting the importance of assessing who is leaving, who is returning, and who is being recruited.
“We just haven’t been put in a situation yet,” Swinney explained, referencing the team’s strong retention rates and the quality of their recruiting classes. “If I took a job somewhere else, I’d be the greatest portal recruiter ever, because half the roster would be gone. I’d have to go put it together.” He acknowledged the portal as a valuable tool for both players and coaches but reiterated Clemson’s preference for building from within.
This approach has allowed Clemson to maintain consistency and stability, avoiding the disruptions that can come with high turnover. Swinney mentioned that Clemson has only had “two, maybe three, four guys leave in three years post-spring,” contrasting this with programs that experience significant departures and must rely on the portal to fill those voids.
Sustaining Success in a Competitive Field
When asked about the longevity of his tenure and that of NC State’s Dave Doeren, Swinney attributed their sustained success to winning games and building strong team cultures. “We’ve won enough,” Swinney said plainly. “The reason we’ve won is we’ve had great staffs and great young men who buy into doing what it takes to win.”
Swinney reflected on the changing landscape of ACC coaching since he started, reminiscing about legendary coaches like Tom O’Brien, Frank Beamer, and Bobby Bowden. He emphasized that the ability to adapt and continue winning is crucial in such a volatile profession. He acknowledged that the fundamental requirement for longevity remains the same: consistent victories.
Overcoming Adversity and Focusing on Fundamentals
Swinney delved into the specifics of overcoming challenging game situations and the importance of fundamentals. He acknowledged that some losses were due to fluky plays and unfortunate breaks, but stressed the need for fundamental soundness, particularly in ball security and execution.
“We had three fumbles on the one-yard line going in to score,” Swinney recalled. “Those are fundamental things—ball handling, securing the ball—that we practice every single day.”
Handling Adversity and Close Games
Swinney was candid about the challenges faced by Clemson in recent seasons, particularly in close games and turnovers. “We’ve been atrocious at taking care of the ball,” he admitted, stressing that winning close games and reducing turnovers are crucial for Clemson to return to its peak form. He noted that Clemson leads the nation in one-score game wins since 2011, but acknowledged a decline in recent years. “We haven’t won the close games. We’ve been good but not great,” he said, identifying the need for better execution in high-pressure situations.
The Impact of Injuries and Depth: Building Resilience
Injuries have been a recurring challenge for Clemson, particularly among wide receivers. Swinney discussed the impact of injuries on the team’s performance, noting that availability and depth are critical. “Health and availability is a huge part of it,” he said, explaining that injuries to key players can significantly disrupt the team’s rhythm and performance.
To mitigate this, Clemson has focused on building depth across all positions. Swinney highlighted the importance of having multiple players ready to step up when needed, ensuring that the team can maintain a high level of play despite injuries. This depth is seen as a buffer against the unpredictability of football, allowing Clemson to remain competitive even when faced with adversity.
Addressing the 2023 Season: Overcoming Turnover Woes
Reflecting on the previous season, Swinney acknowledged the team’s struggles with turnovers, which often proved costly in close games. He detailed specific instances where turnovers directly impacted game outcomes, such as a crucial turnover against Florida State. “We had a turnover against Florida State… it would have been an easy pickup,” he lamented, emphasizing the fine margins that can decide a game.
Swinney was optimistic about the upcoming season, aiming to reduce turnovers through fundamental drills and increased focus on ball security. “We’ve got to turn that around,” he stated, pointing out that Clemson’s success hinges on correcting these mistakes and executing better in high-pressure situations.
Technological Advancements
Swinney expressed enthusiasm about the new quarterback communication systems and sideline technology being introduced. “I think it’ll be great for the quarterbacks, especially those who have a chance to play at the next level,” he said. The implementation of these technologies promises more real-time corrections and strategic adjustments during games. “There’ll be a lot more truth-telling on the sideline than there’s ever been in college football,” he added, predicting that these advancements would lead to more precise and immediate feedback for players.
Swinney also discussed the introduction of new quarterback communication technology, which he believes will enhance real-time adjustments and improve game management. “Being able to fix things in the moment will be beneficial,” he stated.
This technological advancement aligns with Swinney’s broader strategy of leveraging innovation to gain a competitive edge. The new communication system is expected to enhance the efficiency of Clemson’s offense, allowing for quicker adjustments and more precise play-calling.
The Impact of Early Season Challenges
Discussing the advantages and challenges of starting the season with high-caliber opponents, Swinney emphasized that such games set the tone for playoff-level competition. “The advantage is if you win,” he noted. “You get exposed to playoff football right out of the gate.”
Swinney highlighted that playing top-tier teams like Georgia early in the season brings an edge to preparation and helps the team gauge its strengths and weaknesses.
The Expanded Playoff: Implications and Strategies
With the upcoming expansion of the college football playoff, Swinney addressed how this change might influence scheduling and the importance of winning the conference. “The number one thing for us is to win our league,” he asserted. “If you can win your league, you get a bye, and that’s huge.”
The expansion of the college football playoff to 12 teams with automatic bids has strategic implications for scheduling and performance evaluation. Swinney underscored the importance of winning the league to secure a bye, which he considers a significant advantage. “Winning the league is the gateway for us,” he reiterated, emphasizing that league performance remains the top priority.
Swinney believes that the expanded playoff will place greater emphasis on strength of schedule, making high-profile games more significant. “Strength of schedule will be important. Maybe you play games like this, and it factors into the committee’s decisions.”
Swinney also noted that strength of schedule will play a crucial role in playoff selections. Teams that challenge themselves with tough non-conference games may have an edge in the selection process, especially if they perform well. This strategic scheduling aligns with Clemson’s philosophy of seeking out competitive matchups to bolster their playoff credentials.
Player Development: From Freshmen to Leaders
Swinney emphasized the importance of player development in sustaining Clemson’s success. He pointed out that many players who were thrust into starting roles due to injuries gained valuable experience that will benefit the team in the long run. “Guys came back because they wanted to finish on their terms,” Swinney said, highlighting the commitment and resilience of his players.
The development of young players into seasoned leaders is a cornerstone of Clemson’s program. Swinney believes that the adversity faced by these players has equipped them with the mental and physical toughness needed to excel. This focus on development ensures that Clemson remains a formidable team, with a steady pipeline of talent ready to contribute.
Reflecting on Fan Culture and Media Interactions
Swinney touched on the passion of Clemson fans and the intensity of fan culture in modern sports. He acknowledged the importance of fan engagement while also recognizing the personal impact on coaches and players.
“People are passionate about the game, and that’s part of what makes it great,” Swinney remarked. He also shared his enjoyment of media days and the opportunity to engage with various stakeholders in the sport.
Preparing for the Season Ahead
Swinney expressed optimism about the team’s depth and health, especially at the wide receiver position. He acknowledged the challenges posed by injuries in the past but highlighted the improved depth and readiness of the current roster.
As Clemson prepares for the upcoming season, Swinney’s insights offer a comprehensive look at the program’s strategies and goals. From cautious use of the transfer portal to embracing new technologies, focusing on depth and player development, and strategically scheduling high-caliber opponents, Clemson is well-positioned for another competitive year.
Swinney’s candid reflections and strategic outlook underscore the meticulous planning and adaptability that have become hallmarks of Clemson football. As the team gears up for the challenges ahead, fans can expect a season marked by resilience, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
“We’ve got to turn that around,” Swinney repeated, emphasizing the team’s commitment to correcting past mistakes and striving for greatness. With a clear focus on fundamentals, strategic innovations, and a deep roster, Clemson is ready to tackle the season with confidence and determination.
Watch on YouTube – Clemson football coach Dabo Swinney’s Breakout Session at ACC Kickoff – 7.25.24
00:05 Clemson football coach evaluates roster and recruiting for potential transfers
Assesses departing players and projected starters each year
Balances recruiting and potential transfer replacements based on retention and graduation rates
02:41 Longevity in coaching due to winning and player buy-in.
Success attributed to great staffs and players committed to winning.
Reflecting on changes in coaching landscape and staying competitive through success.
05:44 New quarterback communication technology benefits in football
Enhanced communication on the sideline with technology for real-time adjustments during the game
Possibility of creating new offensive and defensive strategies with improved communication
08:14 Playing challenging games like Georgia provides edge and playoff-like atmosphere.
Advantages of playing tough games include exposure to high-caliber football and improvement for both teams throughout the season.
With the expanded playoff and automatic bids, winning the league is crucial for a buy, making games like these even more significant in determining strength of schedule.
11:01 Discussion on playing top teams and accountability for players
Coach Swinney talks about the importance of facing top teams like Georgia and how players like Kaden will be held accountable for their actions.
Swinney emphasizes the value of team integrity and the experience of ACC media days in connecting with players and coaches.
13:52 Improvements needed to win the league
Focus on taking care of the ball and winning close games
Emphasizing big play margin, Red Zone scoring, and finishing games strong
16:54 Clemson football excels in one-score games
Clemson leads the nation in one-score wins since 2011
Clemson’s success in close games has varied, from 96% in 15-20 to 65% in 21-23
19:36 Clemson football coach Dabo Swinney highlights the team’s resilience and growth.
The team’s momentum and confidence have grown through adversity.
Injuries have posed challenges, but the team is focused on improving health and availability.
22:11 Clemson football team’s depth and health
The team has seven experienced players back in the offensive line, indicating better availability and health.
The coach plans to deal with scholarships and the defensive line changes during the upcoming camp.
24:25 Clemson football coach emphasizes the team’s continuity.
New player Mayo’s recent arrival.
Appreciation for the team’s cohesiveness.