Clemson Football Announces Coaching Changes Following Disappointing Season
Clemson University is making significant changes to its football coaching staff after a disappointing 2025 season. The Tigers, who ended their campaign with a lackluster 7-6 record, have decided that offensive coordinator Garrett Riley and safeties coach Mickey Conn will not return for the upcoming season.
Season Overview
Despite high preseason expectations, the Tigers finished the year on a low note, failing to qualify for both the ACC Championship game and the College Football Playoff. Starting the season ranked No. 16, Clemson’s final appearance was a 22-10 loss against Penn State in the Pinstripe Bowl, held at Yankee Stadium.
Declining Offensive Performance
The offensive struggles were a major factor in the team’s regression this season. Under Riley’s leadership, the Tigers’ scoring average dropped from 34.7 points per game in 2024 (ranking 18th in the nation) to just 27.2 points per game in 2025 (ranking 70th). This drop-off was noted by head coach Dabo Swinney, who expressed frustration with the team’s inability to meet production expectations.
"At the end of the day, we just did not get the production and the results that we needed," stated Swinney. "It is time for a change, and we will be moving in a different direction with a new offensive coordinator."
Coach Swinney’s Comments on Riley
Swinney acknowledged the contributions of Garrett Riley, who joined the Clemson staff from TCU in 2023. He commended Riley for helping the team secure an ACC Championship in 2024 and for his dedication.
"I just want to thank Garrett for everything he did for us here at Clemson," Swinney added. "He is smart, has great work ethic, and he’s a great coach, but it just didn’t work like we both wanted."
The 36-year-old Riley, who is the younger brother of Lincoln Riley, the head coach at USC, was one of the highest-paid assistants in college football, set to earn $1.75 million next season with two years remaining on his contract.
Changes in the Defensive Side
Mickey Conn’s departure comes after an evaluation of Clemson’s safeties, which were deemed a significant concern throughout the season. Conn has been a part of the Clemson program for a decade, and his tenure was marked by various contributions in defensive strategy.
"I’m just so appreciative of Mickey and the great contribution he’s made at Clemson over the last decade," Swinney expressed. "I’m excited for upcoming opportunities he may have to call a defense and advance in his career."
Looking Ahead
As Clemson prepares for the next season, the coaching changes signify a pivotal shift for the program. The university will need to find a new offensive coordinator capable of reinvigorating the team’s performance and meeting the high expectations set by fans and the administration alike.
By addressing these key coaching roles, Clemson aims to regain its footing as a contender in the ACC and the national landscape of college football.
For more details on the upcoming changes in Clemson football, visit Clemson Tigers Football.
