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Paul Finebaum criticizes Dabo Swinney's approach at Clemson

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 19, 2026, 7:00 PM

Last updated Jul 19, 2026

Paul Finebaum criticizes Dabo Swinney's approach at Clemson

Summary

ESPN analyst Paul Finebaum expressed his frustration with Dabo Swinney, head coach of the Clemson Tigers, during an episode of Get Up on July 19. Finebaum suggested that Swinney is focusing too much on the past glories of the program, which has not won a national championship since 2016. He noted Swinney's struggles to adapt to the changing of college football, including the impact of the transfer portal and NIL deals. The Clemson Tigers finished the previous season with a disappointing 7-6 record, raising questions about their future performance. Clemson is set to open their 2026 season against LSU, which could be pivotal for both teams.

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By the Numbers

•Paul Finebaum critiques Dabo Swinney's focus on past success.
•Clemson has not won a national title since 2016.
•Clemson ended last season with a 7-6 record.
•Tigers face LSU in their season opener in 2026.
•Finebaum suggests Swinney's relevance is slipping.

Latest Updates

7:00 PMYahoo Sports — Paul Finebaum says Dabo Swinney is stuck in the past: ‘They’re not great anymore’

What they're saying

"
Dabo Swinney has been the head coach of the Clemson Tigers football team since 2008 and has been the engine behind the program’s transformation from a middle-of-the-road ACC team into a perennial national championship contender. However, Swinney has struggled to adapt to a college football landscape where the transfer portal, NIL, and local courts seem…
— Yahoo Sports

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