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Clemson faces LSU as Dabo Swinney addresses program criticism

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 5, 2026, 9:04 AM

Last updated Sep 5, 2026

Clemson faces LSU as Dabo Swinney addresses program criticism

Summary

No. 23 Clemson opens its season on September 5 in Baton Rouge against No. 13 LSU in a matchup that marks the debut of LSU head coach Lane Kiffin. The game arrives amid ongoing external debate regarding the job security of Dabo Swinney following a 7-6 finish for the Tigers in 2025. While some media analysts suggest the coach faces mounting pressure after a recent period of inconsistent results, others note his status as a two-time national champion and the prohibitive cost of his contract provide significant job protection. Swinney would be owed $57 million if Clemson fired him without cause, an amount that remains unchanged under his 10-year contract signed in 2022. During the 2026 ACC Kickoff, Swinney addressed critics of the program directly while preparing his team for the season-opening contest against LSU.

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By the Numbers

•No. 23 Clemson plays No. 13 LSU in Baton Rouge on September 5 at 7:30 p.m.
•Lane Kiffin makes his debut as the head coach for LSU in this game.
•Swinney carries a $57 million buyout clause in his 10-year, $115 million contract.
•Clemson finished the 2025 season with a 7-6 record.
•Swinney holds a career record of 187-53 as Clemson head coach.

Latest Updates

9:04 AMYahoo Sports — Is Dabo Swinney really on the hot seat heading into Clemson's game vs LSU and Lane Kiffin?

What they're saying

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After a 7-6 season in 2025, pressure is building on Clemson and Dabo Swinney. But does that mean Swinney is actually on the hot seat?
— Yahoo Sports

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