Clemson fans don't want to wish Garrett Riley a Happy New Year after Pinstripe Bowl

Clemson’s slow offensive start followed the Tigers to New York.

After one quarter at Yankee Stadium, Clemson trailed Penn State 3–0 in the Pinstripe Bowl — and fans wasted no time venting online.

Despite holding Penn State to just a field goal, Clemson’s offense struggled to generate rhythm early, managing limited yardage and failing to sustain drives. The early stagnation was enough to reignite familiar frustrations across social media.

“Garrett Riley trying to get himself actually fired today,” one fan posted as Clemson punted again. Another added bluntly, “Bruh why is Garrett Riley still here,” echoing a sentiment that has grown louder as the season progressed.

Even with the game still very much within reach, patience was thin. “We need to leave Garrett Riley in the Bronx,” one fan joked, while another simply wrote, “I just can’t with Garrett Riley man, I’m so done with him.”

The defense did its part early, keeping Penn State in check and giving Clemson opportunities. But for a fan base desperate for offensive identity and consistency, another sluggish quarter felt all too familiar.

With three quarters remaining, Clemson still had time to flip the script. Whether the offense could — and whether fans would soften their stance — remained the looming storyline as the Pinstripe Bowl moved forward.