Is Clemson Really an 8–4 Team in 2026? | Clemson Tigers Podcast

Paul Finebaum says Clemson looks like an 8–4 team in 2026. Is that just Finebaum stirring the pot, or is the national doubt fair after Clemson’s disappointing 7–6 season? Morgan Thomas breaks down why Clemson fans may not like the prediction, but also why the Tigers have to earn back the benefit of the doubt. Clemson has enough talent to be better than 8–4, especially with Bryant Wesco Jr. medically cleared, T.J. Moore returning as a key receiver, Tristan Smith back in the wide receiver room, and Chad Morris taking over the offense. But real questions remain. Christopher Vizzina is stepping into the starting quarterback role, the offensive line must improve quickly, and the season opens with a major test against LSU. Clemson’s ceiling is higher than 8–4, but the Tigers have to prove it on the field. 00:00 Paul Finebaum predicts 8–4 for Clemson 03:16 Why Clemson has to earn trust back 07:40 Clemson’s offensive line is the swing factor 11:31 Why Clemson can be better than 8–4 13:55 Indeed sponsor message 19:59 Bryant Wesco Jr. and Clemson’s offensive upside 23:58 Christopher Vizzina and the offense’s biggest questions 27:35 Why 2026 is a prove-it season 28:46 Locked On Clemson outro and Everydayer Club Everydayer Club If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonclemson.supercast.com 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)