Clemson's Redemption Arc: From Week 1 Blowout to Playoff Contender

As the 2025 college football season approaches, Clemson is poised to be a top contender for the national title. The Tigers had a tumultuous 2024 campaign, but ultimately bounced back from a disastrous start to make the College Football Playoff.

Clemson began the 2024 season with a 34-3 blowout loss to Georgia, their third Week 1 defeat in the last four years. However, the Tigers then reeled off six straight wins before a home loss to Louisville put their playoff hopes in jeopardy. But thanks to some help from other teams, Clemson secured a spot in the ACC title game and defeated SMU with a last-second 56-yard field goal.

The Tigers' season ended with a 38-24 loss to Texas in the first round of the College Football Playoff, but the team's resilience and growth throughout the year has them primed for a big 2025 campaign. Quarterback DJ Klubnik, who took over the starting job late in 2022, had a remarkable turnaround, throwing for 3,639 yards and 36 touchdowns after struggling in 2023.

Clemson's defense, led by standout linebacker Barrett Brown, could also be a major factor. Brown had 80 tackles and 5 sacks as a true freshman in 2024, and he'll team up with senior Wade Woodaz to anchor the Tigers' second level. With nine starters back on defense, Clemson has the potential to be one of the nation's top units.

The Tigers' roster continuity and offensive firepower make them a leading contender for the 2025 national championship. If they can avoid another slow start and navigate a manageable ACC schedule, Clemson could be the first team to finish a season 16-0 at the top level of college football.