Finebaum Slams Swinney: Clemson 'Not Great Anymore'

Sports commentator Paul Finebaum has voiced strong criticism regarding Dabo Swinney's public statements about the Clemson football program. Finebaum believes Swinney is dwelling on past successes and misrepresenting the team's current standing.

During a recent appearance on ESPN's Get Up, Finebaum directly addressed Swinney's comments made at the ACC Kickoff. Swinney had referenced Clemson's three conference titles since 2020, a point that did not sit well with Finebaum.

"Somebody should dunk him [Swinney] in that Raising Cane's sauce because I am so exasperated listening to Dabo [Swinney] tell us how great he used to be," Finebaum stated. "They're not great anymore."

Finebaum compared Swinney unfavorably to other all-time greats who do not constantly refer to their past championships. He emphasized that Clemson's program is currently "slipping and sliding away." While acknowledging they might win around nine games this year, he found it "downright embarrassing" that the team lost six games last season, even with a Heisman favorite quarterback.

Clemson's performance in the 2025 season was a major disappointment. The team started with a 3-5 record before winning their final four regular-season games. Despite returning many key players like quarterback Cade Klubnik and several future NFL draft picks, the Tigers failed to live up to expectations. This included a program-record nine players selected in the 2026 NFL Draft, with five top-100 picks.

However, Finebaum's criticism contrasts with Swinney's historical success at Clemson. Under Swinney, the Tigers have consistently been an ACC powerhouse, achieving double-digit wins in 13 of the last 17 seasons, securing nine conference championships, making five playoff appearances, and winning two national titles.

As the 2026 season approaches, Swinney faces the challenge of integrating new players into key roles and navigating a difficult schedule. Clemson's upcoming games include road matchups against LSU, Duke, and Florida State, along with home games against Miami, Virginia Tech, and South Carolina.