Clemson’s offensive struggles have prompted pointed criticism from Dabo Swinney, but they haven’t changed his plans for Chad Morris.
A day after the Tigers’ 20-16 loss to Virginia Tech, Swinney made clear that his offensive coordinator still has his support. Asked during Sunday evening’s teleconference whether he was confident Morris would coach the remainder of the season, Swinney answered, “Absolutely.”
That endorsement followed a Saturday in which Swinney placed considerable responsibility on the coaching staff. At halftime, he described Clemson’s offensive performance as “pitiful” and called the problems “100% coaching.” Afterward, he said the staff had not done enough to help the players win.
On Sunday, Swinney emphasized that those comments included his own performance.
“I’m criticizing myself, as well, because I’m the head coach,” Swinney said. “It starts with me. Ultimately, it’s my responsibility.”
Morris returned to Clemson ahead of the 2026 season after previously directing the offense from 2011-14. His second stint has yet to produce the improvement the Tigers need, but Swinney maintained his confidence in Morris’ preparation and ability.
“There’s nobody that works harder than Chad,” Swinney said. “He’s smart, he’s detailed. It just hasn’t come together.”
Swinney also dismissed the possibility of redistributing offensive staff responsibilities along the lines of last season’s adjustments in the secondary, saying the situations were different.
What Virginia Tech coach James Franklin said about Clemson after win
— Clemson Wire (@Clemson_Wire) October 25, 2026
📸 Ken Ruinard / USA Today Network , USA TODAY Network via Reuters Co https://t.co/u5GbASo1fepic.twitter.com/Xp8nuHInpO
For Clemson, that leaves the current staff tasked with finding answers as the Tigers enter another conference road test. Saturday’s defeat dropped Clemson to 4-3 overall and 2-2 in ACC play.
The Tigers visit Florida State this Saturday for a 7 p.m. kickoff on ACC Network.
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This article originally appeared on Clemson Wire: Dabo Swinney asked about Clemson’s offensive coordinator job security