National Media Respects Clemson Again. But Do They Trust the Tigers? | Clemson Tigers Podcast

Clemson football is getting national respect again, but do people actually trust the Tigers? Morgan Thomas breaks down the gap between Clemson’s preseason recognition and the skepticism still surrounding Dabo Swinney’s program after last season’s struggles. Clemson is being talked about like a team with talent, but still treated like a program with something to prove. This episode looks at why national media is giving Clemson some respect, why the trust is not fully back yet, and what has to change on the field in 2026. The Tigers need a clearer offensive identity under Chad Morris, improved execution from Christopher Vizzina, better physicality from the offensive line, and more consistent play from a defense led by names like Sammy Brown, Bryant Wesco Jr., T.J. Moore, Ashton Hampton, Jerome Carter, Amare Adams, Collin Sadler, and Markus Strong. 00:00 Clemson’s respect gap and national expectations 05:42 Why Clemson still has something to prove 08:18 How Clemson is using the underdog mindset 12:45 Chad Morris and Clemson’s offensive identity 14:42 Tajh Boyd’s impact on the quarterback room 18:39 Why the offensive line must look different 21:44 What Clemson has to prove in 2026 26:03 How Clemson must respond to adversity 27:59 Final thoughts on Clemson earning trust Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Odoo Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon. Indeed Listeners of this show get a $75 Sponsored Job Credit to help give your job the premium placement it deserves at http://Indeed.com/podcast FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. From the opening whistle to the final kick, Let There Be Goals on FanDuel. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started now. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)