Full Breakdown
Clemson Football Restructures Coaching Staff After Disappointing Season
12/30/2025, 7:59:11 AM
Coaching Changes Announced
Clemson University has officially parted ways with offensive coordinator Garrett Riley and safeties coach Mickey Conn following a disappointing 2025 season. Head coach Dabo Swinney announced the changes on December 29, 2025, two days after the Tigers concluded their season with a 22-10 loss to Penn State in the Pinstripe Bowl, finishing with a 7-6 record. This marked the program's worst performance since 2010.
Performance Under Scrutiny
Riley, who joined Clemson in January 2023 after a successful stint at TCU, was expected to revitalize a struggling offense. However, the Tigers' offensive production regressed significantly during his tenure. In 2024, Clemson averaged 34.7 points per game, ranking 18th nationally, but this dropped to 27.2 points per game in 2025, placing them 70th. The team also struggled with rushing, averaging just 124.5 yards per game, which ranked 104th in the nation.
Swinney expressed disappointment in the team's performance, stating, “At the end of the day, we just did not get the production and the results that we needed, and I just feel like it is time for a change.” He acknowledged Riley's contributions, noting his work ethic and potential for future success, but emphasized the need for a new direction.
Criticism of Coaching Decisions
Throughout the season, Swinney had been vocal about his frustrations with the offense, particularly regarding its inability to establish a consistent running game and convert on third downs, where they ranked 114th nationally. The Tigers' offensive struggles were compounded by a rocky start to the season, which saw them begin with a 1-3 record, ultimately leading to their failure to qualify for the ACC Championship or the College Football Playoff.
Conn's Departure
Mickey Conn, who had been with the Clemson program since 2016, also faced dismissal. Swinney praised Conn's decade-long contributions, highlighting his role in developing players and contributing to championship teams. Conn's safeties unit struggled in 2025, finishing with the nation's 119th-ranked passing defense, allowing an average of 251.4 yards per game.
Looking Ahead
With these changes, Clemson is now tasked with finding new leadership for both the offensive and defensive units. Swinney expressed optimism about the future, stating, “I am excited about the plan we have in place for our secondary and our defensive staff, and I am looking forward to identifying the right leader for our offense to help achieve our goals for 2026 and beyond.”
The restructuring comes at a critical time for Clemson, as the program seeks to regain its competitive edge in college football after several seasons of underperformance. The urgency to improve is palpable, especially with the increasing pressure to return to the top tier of college football.
