Full Breakdown
Finebaum Calls for Swinney’s Dismissal After Clemson’s Season-Opening Blowout
9/8/2026, 8:29:17 AM
Season-Opening Blowout Triggers Calls for Change
Clemson entered the 2026 campaign with high expectations after a 7-6 record in 2025, but the Tigers were routed 51-10 by LSU in the opening game. The defeat marked the worst loss of Dabo Swinney’s tenure, which began in 2008. ESPN analyst Paul Finebaum responded on “Get Up,” saying the result “is over” and that he would fire Swinney if he were the athletic director.
Recent Clemson Performance
Swiney’s record includes a 187-55 tally, two national championships, seven College Football Playoff appearances and nine ACC titles over 18 seasons. However, the 2025 season produced only seven wins—the fewest since 2010—raising doubts about the program’s trajectory.
Finebaum’s Comments and Swinney’s Response
Finebaum argued that the loss “cannot salvage this program,” suggesting Swinney should consider a fresh start before the program “goes down in utter flames.” He warned that high-school recruits and transfer-portal players would question joining Clemson under the current direction. Swinney, addressing the defeat, admitted the team “got our ass kicked” and called the experience “embarrassing,” adding that “the best thing about that one is it’s over.”
Key Game Statistics
- Final score: LSU 51, Clemson 10.
- Total offense: LSU 644 yards vs. Clemson 145 yards.
- First downs: LSU 38, Clemson 8.
- Half-time lead: LSU 31-3.
