Last season, Clemson secured 10 wins, claimed the ACC title, and made their return to the College Football Playoff after a three-year absence. That’s an impressive baseline. However, reaching their highest potential has proven more difficult—especially since the Tigers went 0-3 against SEC opponents and still haven’t fully rejoined the sport’s elite. With eight returning starters on each side of the ball, though, things are beginning to line up. For Dabo Swinney’s program, it’s once again playoff or bust. Their matchups against LSU and South Carolina could ultimately define whether 2025 is simply a good season or something far greater.
After an inconsistent debut campaign, quarterback Cade Klubnik excelled as a junior, producing 43 total touchdowns (36 through the air and seven on the ground) and repeatedly showing why he was a 5-star recruit. Under his leadership, Clemson’s offense ranked in the top 20 nationally in both scoring and total yardage.
Klubnik will benefit from one of the country’s most talented receiving units this year. Antonio Williams earned first-team All-ACC honors, and sophomores Bryant Wesco Jr. and T.J. Moore are expected to keep progressing.
At running back, former wideout Adam Randall—a powerful 6-foot-2, 225-pounder—is the frontrunner for the starting role, but true freshman Gideon Davidson could quickly carve out a significant spot in the rotation. The Tigers will also return four starters along the offensive line.
Clemson’s Defense Outlook for 2025
Historically, Brent Venables’ defenses were dominant against the run, and initially, Wes Goodwin continued that legacy. But in 2024, the unit collapsed, giving up 4.71 yards per rush—the program’s worst figure since 1975.
After three seasons, Swinney dismissed Goodwin and made a headline-grabbing hire in Tom Allen, former Indiana head coach and Penn State defensive coordinator. Known for his decades of experience and passionate coaching style, Allen brings an authoritative presence.
Junior defensive linemen Peter Woods and T.J. Parker are legitimate NFL prospects, and Purdue transfer Will Heldt is expected to step right in at defensive end. Sophomore linebacker Sammy Brown is a standout talent, while corners Avieon Terrell and Ashton Hampton form a reliable duo. Depth could be an issue in the secondary, but the defense has the pieces to rebound fast.
Special Teams Preview for 2025
Clemson struck gold with kicker Nolan Hauser, who nailed 18 of 24 field goals as a freshman, including an FBS conference championship record 56-yard walk-off kick. With long-time punter Aidan Swanson departed, the punting job remains unsettled heading into the season.
National Ranking: No. 5
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