What’s Next? The Future at Clemson Very Bright

As Saturday night’s euphoria subsides, a lot of Clemson fans are asking what’s next? What will be the Tigers’ bowl destination? Who will be the opponent? Well, there are several answers to all of those questions.

First and foremost, no one will know absolutely, until next Sunday, after the CFB Playoff selection show. However, there is plenty of speculation and guessing.

Several noted media sources within ESPN have speculated the Tigers will square off against Texas A&M in the Gator Bowl. Several others, CBS and The Atlantic, in particular, have the Tigers headed to the Cheese-It Bowl in Orlando against a Big XII opponent, Iowa State or Kansas State. Endless possibilities, all interesting and worthy.

I was initially of the mindset that the Tigers should decline any bowl invitation. They should stay home to rest, heal and recuperate after this grueling, injury riddled season.

However, a smarter man than I, pointed out the benefits of the extra thirteen practices. To give the young players time to grow and develop. To have one month to prepare for one single opponent. Yes, I quickly knew my shortsightedness had no upside. So, bowling the Tigers go.

Then, there is the first of two signing days for the 2022 recruiting class on December 15. It’s always a day of excitement and anticipation as the next class of Tigers commit. It’s a special time, almost like the birth of a new child, it’s hopeful. From where we stand today, it should yield another top 10-15 class for Dabo Swinney’s Tigers. The future indeed looks bright.

With this year’s coaching carousel, no staff is safe. Could Clemson lose any staff members? It’s always a possibility and especially this year, as change and uncertainty fills the air. As mere fans, there is little anyone can do but watch and wait. It’s hoped by many, when the carousel stops, this staff will remain mostly intact.

The two coordinators, Tony Elliott and Brent Venables, have a long, successful body of work that makes them coveted but thus far, both remain at Clemson awaiting the right situation. Selfishly, Tiger nation would like them to stay. However, realistically, they must do what’s best for them and their families. One hopes, it will all work itself out for the best.

What about losing players to the transfer portal? That godless, human vacuum that takes but as of yet, rarely gives, will be busy. It’s inevitable and despite much fan frustration, once committed, “All-In” young men, for a myriad of reasons, will choose to just leave. It’s a part of the ever changing landscape of college football that currently exists.

So, the immediate future is fairly clear. The Tigers will likely spend late December in sunny Florida. The not so distant future is ripe with possible changes, both in coaching staff, player/personnel, and comings and goings.

A new class coming in January and the entire offseason to find answers to these and many other questions. However, sometimes “there is no answer at this time” is one fans will have to accept. Relax, sit back and look towards the future and trust those that have led this program this far. One has to believe, they will continue to lead them towards greatness. It’s Clemson’s destiny, don’t doubt it, believe it. This past season proves even the roughest of times contains greatness.