National College Football Analyst Boldly Predicts Clemson Tigers Will Surge Back Into National Spotlight With Revamped Offense and Defensive Depth
CLEMSON, S.C. — After two seasons outside the College Football Playoff picture, a prominent national college football analyst is making headlines with a bold prediction: the Clemson Tigers are poised to surge back into the national spotlight in 2025.
The prediction comes from ESPN’s Marcus Franklin, a respected voice in college football circles, who believes head coach Dabo Swinney’s revamped offensive strategy and an emerging defense will catapult Clemson back into championship contention.
“This is a team that’s been flying under the radar for the past couple of years, but all the pieces are falling into place,” Franklin said during a recent segment on College GameDay. “With the changes we’re seeing on offense and the depth they’ve developed on defense, Clemson is ready to reassert itself as one of college football’s elite.”
One of the most significant developments has been the hiring of new offensive coordinator Zach Kittley, known for his innovative passing schemes. Kittley has brought a faster tempo and greater creativity to the Tigers’ offense, which struggled with inconsistency in recent seasons.
“Clemson is returning to a high-octane identity,” Franklin explained. “Quarterback Cade Klubnik looks far more comfortable under Kittley’s system. The Tigers are stretching the field again and utilizing their wide receivers in space, which we haven’t seen since the Trevor Lawrence era.”
On the defensive side, the Tigers are expected to lean on a strong core of experienced players and rising stars. Linebacker Barrett Carter and defensive tackle Peter Woods have drawn praise for their leadership and playmaking ability. Defensive coordinator Wes Goodwin has also evolved his schemes to better counter modern offenses.
“The defense is nasty again,” Franklin said. “They’re fast, physical, and deep. That defensive line can control games.”
Clemson’s 2024 recruiting class, which ranked in the top 5 nationally, has also added fresh talent to an already loaded roster. Several true freshmen have reportedly impressed in spring camp and could contribute immediately.
While Clemson’s recent setbacks raised questions about the program’s trajectory, many analysts now see those as temporary growing pains.
“They were never far off,” Franklin said. “It’s a matter of small adjustments, and now that they’ve made them, watch out.”
Clemson opens the 2025 season with a high-profile matchup against Georgia, a game that could set the tone for the season — and potentially, their return to the playoff conversation.
“If they win that opener,” Franklin concluded, “the Tigers will be back in the thick of the title hunt. Mark my words.”
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