Clemson’s offense entered the offseason with a stark realization: the ground game that once defined its identity had faltered in 2025, leaving the Tigers scrambling to rewrite their playbook.
A coaching shuffle and a fresh coordinator
The firing of offensive coordinator Garrett Riley cleared the way for Chad Morris to reclaim the role he previously held, bringing a proven track record of extracting production from running backs.
Among the returning backs, Adam Randall emerged as the most consistent option, having logged 168 carries for 814 yards and a 4.8‑yard average last year, positioning him as the likely centerpiece of the new scheme.
Freshman Gideon Davidson showed flashes of promise, but inconsistency kept him from a larger role, prompting the staff to look elsewhere for depth.
Adding to the mix, SMU transfer Chris Johnson Jr. arrived with a reputation for speed, offering a different dimension that could stretch defenses and open lanes for his teammates.
Injury setbacks also began to recede, with Jay Haynes and Jarvis Green expected to return and compete for the fourth and fifth spots in the rotation as spring practice kicks off.
Why the run matters
Coaches and analysts alike stress that a reliable rushing attack will be essential for keeping defenses honest and allowing the passing game to flourish in the upcoming season.
If Morris can replicate his past success and the backfield stays healthy, Clemson could see a resurgence in its offensive identity, turning a difficult year into a springboard for 2026.