Numerous milestones mark Clemson’s journey from mediocrity to annual championship contention. The challenge lies in recognizing these pivotal moments. It all boils down to one key factor – the exuberance exuded by Dabo Swinney.
The Tigers secured a significant victory, leading Swinney to converse with Edwards that fateful night. He consistently emphasized to them that they stand on the threshold of greatness and must soon take that decisive step forward. Swinney also highlighted that one’s fate in the game hinges on seizing opportunities.
Continuing his confrontational rhetoric towards rivals like South Carolina, Swinney mirrored his redemptive conquest over Ohio in the Orange Bowl following the 2013 season. Another critical victory for the Tigers brought them closer to their ultimate objective – establishing themselves as the elite team in the nation, according to Swinney.
The elation following the triumph against LSU allowed Clemson to achieve their first 11-win season since 1981; the triumph over Ohio State echoed West Virginia’s embarrassment in the Orange Bowl. Notre Dame suffered a similar fate in 2015.
Each step taken by Swinney and the Tigers leading up to the 2015 season has intensified their recruitment efforts, ultimately resulting in acquiring transformative players like Deshaun Watson, alongside rising talents such as Mitch Hyatt, Christian Wilkins, and Austin Bryant.