Clemson Tigers Ranked No. 1 in Preseason by ESPN Analyst McElroy

As the 2025 college football season approaches, the Clemson Tigers have emerged as an unexpected frontrunner in the national title race. Contrary to the consensus, ESPN analyst Greg McElroy has ranked Clemson as his preseason No. 1 team, surpassing both the highly-touted Texas Longhorns and the defending champion Ohio State Buckeyes.

McElroy's confidence in the Tigers stems primarily from the growth of senior quarterback Cade Klubnik. After a rocky sophomore campaign, Klubnik bounced back last season, throwing for over 3,600 yards and 36 touchdowns. McElroy believes Klubnik's improved decision-making and growing chemistry with offensive coordinator Garrett Riley will be key to Clemson's success.

Beyond Klubnik, McElroy is also high on Clemson's stacked defensive line, led by junior EDGE rusher T.J. Parker and the return of former five-star recruit Peter Woods to his natural defensive tackle position. The addition of former Indiana head coach Tom Allen as the new defensive coordinator has also generated optimism, with McElroy expecting Clemson's defense to play with more edge and aggression.

The lone concern for McElroy is Clemson's uncertainty at running back, with the departure of Phil Mafah and an injury to Jay Haynes. However, the analyst believes the Tigers' elite receiving corps, led by senior Antonio Williams, and their championship-caliber defensive line will be enough to propel them to the top of the rankings.

Clemson will have an early opportunity to validate McElroy's bold prediction when they host the LSU Tigers in their season opener on August 30th. If the Tigers can start the season strong, McElroy's preseason No. 1 ranking may not seem so surprising for long.