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Finebaum Brands Clemson “Second-Tier” After LSU Rout

9/7/2026

30 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Finebaum Criticizes Clemson

Paul Finebaum called Clemson a second-tier program after its 51-10 loss to LSU.
Finebaum said Clemson is a shell of itself and that the game has passed Swinney.
Clemson has not recorded double-digit wins in two of the last three seasons, finishing 7-6 unranked.
Since 2023, Clemson is 26-15 overall and 4-6 versus ranked opponents.
Firing Swinney now would save about $3 million versus a $60 million buyout due in 2027.

Summary

LSU Dominates

LSU converted 11 of 16 third downs and its only fourth-down attempt.
LSU defense recorded four sacks, a defensive touchdown, and limited Clemson to under 100 yards.
Transfer running back Dilin Jones rushed for 113 yards and two touchdowns.
Transfer Leavitt added two rushing touchdowns and a 32-yard TD pass to a teammate.
Athletic director Verge Ausberry celebrated Lane Kiffin’s hiring after the win.

History

Historical Context

After a 1999 season in which DiNardo was dismissed on Nov. 15 following a 35-10 win over Arkansas, LSU demonstrated a pattern of rapid coaching changes. The program’s next high point arrived in the 2003 season when Nick Saban led LSU to a BCS National Championship, beating Oklahoma 21-14. Today, Paul Finebaum’s critique of Clemson echoes the media pressure that once spurred LSU’s swift administrative actions.

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Finebaum Criticizes Clemson

Paul Finebaum called Clemson a second-tier program after its 51-10 loss to LSU.
Finebaum said Clemson is a shell of itself and that the game has passed Swinney.
Clemson has not recorded double-digit wins in two of the last three seasons, finishing 7-6 unranked.
Since 2023, Clemson is 26-15 overall and 4-6 versus ranked opponents.
Firing Swinney now would save about $3 million versus a $60 million buyout due in 2027.

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