Danny Ford, the 1981 national‑championship coach who once steered Clemson to its first title, recently spoke about the upcoming 2026 season opener against Louisiana State. His remarks come as the Tigers prepare to test a new quarterback under the bright lights of Baton Rouge.
Ford highlighted the pressure on redshirt junior Christopher Vizzina, who is slated to start the game. While Vizzina has appeared in 14 contests and earned a single start last season, Ford noted that the youngster will face a defense that has historically been tough on visiting quarterbacks.
The Financial Strain on College Football
Beyond the field, Ford criticized the financial landscape of college football. He pointed to rising costs, the proliferation of NIL deals, and the advantage that schools with larger alumni bases enjoy when courting donors. According to him, the current model is unsustainable and threatens to widen the gap between elite programs and the rest.
Ford’s concerns echo a broader debate about the future of the sport. He argues that without structural reforms, the disparity will only grow, making it harder for smaller schools to compete both on the gridiron and in the marketplace.