Clemson's Path to 10 Wins is Easier Than You Think

The Clemson Tigers posted 12 straight double-digit win campaigns between 2011 and 2022, and they also won 10 games in 2024.

Last year, however, Clemson went just 7-6 and lost to Penn State in the Pinstripe Bowl, marking the school's worst finish since 2010.

We know the story by now.

But can the Tigers turn things around and return to double-figure wins in 2026?

You wouldn't think so considering Clemson just lost nine key players — which tied a school record — to the NFL Draft and because it has serious uncertainty at quarterback.

But a quick look at the Tigers' schedule — and Dabo Swinney's roster — demonstrates that it is absolutely not out of the realm of possibility.

Clemson will open the season at LSU for the second straight year. That will be a tough matchup, especially in Lane Kiffin's Baton Rouge debut. The Tigers have lost three straight season openers, and this year, it might end up being four.

Then, in early October, Clemson will face Miami, the team that lost to Indiana in the National Championship Game last January.

Those two games could very well be losses for Clemson — although it should be noted that the Miami clash is at home.

But take a look at the rest of the Tigers' schedule. Do you see any truly terrifying matchups in there?

Sure, Florida State on the road might be challenging. Same goes for away matchups at California and Duke. Georgia Tech at home isn't a gimme, either.

But let's be real here: prime Swinney would smoke those clubs, and while it's fair to say that Swinney is no longer in his prime, I still think he has enough left in the tank to sweep those contests.

As for Clemson's roster? Yes, Christopher Vizzina is a major question mark under center. But the Tigers are loaded at wide receiver with T.J. Moore, Bryant Wesco, Tyler Brown, Tristan Smith and three four-star freshmen, including Naeem Burroughs.

The backfield features a very intriguing sophomore in Gideon Davidson, not to mention an under-the-radar transfer addition in Chris Johnson Jr., who actually hurt Clemson while playing for SMU last fall.

Defensively, the Tigers have several potential 2027 first-round picks: linebacker Sammy Brown, defensive end Will Heldt and cornerback Ashton Hampton.

Are there issues? Sure. The offensive line is questionable, and it's fair to doubt Clemson's depth on the defensive side of the ball after losing so many key pieces.

But I absolutely believe this team is talented enough to, at least, go 9-3 during the regular season, and then rack up a 10th win in a bowl game.

I won't go as far to say that the Tigers will be CFP contenders, but I do think they'll be better than last year, and I think they'll be significantly better than anyone is expecting.