Clemson primed to be college football’s next dynasty
By Luke Drage
A Dynasty in the making
2016 was a historic season for the Clemson Tigers. Dabo Swinney’s team outlasted Alabama in the CFB Playoff Championship game to secure the program’s 4th national title.
Deshaun Watson’s last gasp touchdown pass to Hunter Renfrow led the Tigers to a 35-31 victory in one of the greatest games in recent memory. This avenged their close loss to the Tide the year before and capped off an outstanding few seasons under Swinney.
Six straight years of 10 wins or more is a fine accomplishment and the enigmatic coach got his just rewards for a job well done.
However, this victory should not represent the end of a journey. Instead it should serve to propel the program into the upper echelons of historically elite teams. Alabama under Nick Saban is unarguably the only dynasty of the modern era in college football.
The Tide have won 4 of the last 8 national titles. The former Dolphins head coach has an overall record of 118-19 in his 11 year tenure in Tuscaloosa, achieving unprecedented levels of success.
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Other coaches have had successful periods in this time frame but none with one team, and with such impressive longevity.
But, Swinney and Clemson now have a chance to usurp the Bama juggernaut and become the ascendant power in the game over the next few years, securing a dynasty of their own.
Watson, all the success he delivered, and his outstanding leadership, have departed for the NFL. So, many thought this year would be one of rebuilding and slight decline in Death Valley.
But, the Tigers have once again started strongly, going 4-0 to open the year. This has included impressive wins over ranked opponents Louisville and Auburn.
Kelly Bryant has taken well to the starting quarterback role and is showing signs he can lead this team with efficient play and a calm demeanor. The defense is outstanding yet again and the pieces are falling in place for another title tilt come January.
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This program suddenly looks like it can churn out great team after great team in the image of Saban’s Bama. Swinney has recruited well and surrounded himself with elite coaches. Clemson is now primed to be the next dynasty in college football.