A New Era for the Tigers' Ground Game
Clemson Tigers finished the 2025 season with a disappointing 7-6 record, a result that exposed weaknesses in the rushing attack. The team managed just 1,000 yards on the ground, averaging 4.2 yards per carry, and saw its offense stall in critical moments. Head coach Dabo Swinney has emphasized that a stronger running game is essential if the Tigers hope to climb back into contention in the ACC.
Enter Chad Morris, who returns as offensive coordinator with a clear mandate: re‑establish a power‑run identity. Morris, who previously helped shape a balanced attack during his earlier stint at Clemson, promises a scheme that emphasizes tempo, misdirection, and a heavy dose of inside runs. His philosophy has already begun to influence practice sessions, where players are being asked to embrace a more physical, downhill approach.
The backfield will be anchored by Adam Randall, who led the team last season with 814 rushing yards on 168 carries and a 4.8 yards‑per‑carry average. Randall’s blend of size and breakaway speed makes him the natural No. 1 option, but depth remains a question. Freshman Gideon Davidson showed flashes of potential in limited snaps, while transfer Chris Johnson Jr. from Southern Methodist University brings a track‑star’s acceleration that could stretch defenses.
Adding to the mix, Jay Haynes and Jarvis Green are slated to compete for the fourth and fifth‑back spots after recovering from injuries that limited their 2025 contributions. Their experience and versatility could provide the necessary rotation to keep the ground game fresh throughout a demanding schedule. The coaching staff also hopes that the increased depth will mitigate the health concerns that plagued the position last year.
Beyond the individual talent, the Tigers’ success in 2026 will hinge on continuity and execution. The offensive line, which struggled with consistency in 2025, must gel quickly to open lanes for the new‑look backfield. If Morris can translate his run‑centric vision into consistent yardage, Clemson may find itself back in the conversation for a playoff berth, relying heavily on the very ground game that faltered a year ago.