An Outkick column argues that Clemson should consider replacing head coach Dabo Swinney after a heavy 51-10 defeat to LSU exposed how far the once-dominant programme has fallen. The piece contends that Swinney's success has waned as the sport has shifted into the NIL era, with rivals such as Miami now overtaking Clemson by embracing the new landscape, and suggests the Tigers' next move matters because chasing a marquee "big name" coach has historically backfired for rival programmes.

The writer points to Texas A&M, LSU and USC as examples where hiring supposedly "can't miss" coaches such as Jimbo Fisher, Brian Kelly and Lincoln Riley failed to deliver lasting success. Instead, the article proposes Virginia's Tony Elliott, 46, as the ideal replacement, citing his rapid turnaround of the Cavaliers, including a school-record 11-win season, an ACC title game appearance, the Bear Bryant Coach of the Year award, and a strong start to the current campaign with a win over NC State.