Health Check Before Atlanta
Asked about the overall health of the roster going into Georgia Tech, Swinney stayed cautious but confident:
“I mean, pretty good. We got what we got, and you know, we'll see where everybody is tomorrow. Take 80, so we'll load up 80 and head to Atlanta. Best we've got.”
The Tigers will announce their official injury report Friday, but Swinney made it clear Clemson will take a full travel squad to Bobby Dodd Stadium.
Offensive Rhythm and Young Running Backs
Clemson’s offense has struggled to find consistency through two games, and Swinney emphasized the need for more flow. He also addressed the push to get backup running backs more involved behind starter Adam Randall.
“Yeah, more rhythm, more plays, just more, you know, in sync, best three outs. And so they'll get their opportunity. Like I said, we'll start with Adam, and then we'll go from there. But definitely just rhythm and playing out.”
Swinney praised the progress of the young backs but admitted they’ve had their share of mistakes:
“I think they've done great. I mean, they're two young max that are getting better, and then, you know, they've had some mistakes, both when they've gotten in there. He's got a drop the other day. Just couple points been my shot last week, but their opportunity will come.”
Ryan Allen’s Impact on Special Teams
Special teams have been under the microscope since last season, and Swinney credited assistant coach Ryan Allen — a three-time Super Bowl champion punter — for elevating the group.
“I mean, he's great. I mean, he's done it. He's a three time Super Bowl champion. Understands, you know, competition, certainly understands the technical aspects of kicking, putting, snapping, holding, all that stuff. So he's been a great addition to our staff. Hired him last year, so he's done a great job.”
Swinney also highlighted the work of coach Luke Richardson on the field goal protection unit:
“Just personnel. Coach Luke [has] done a great job with that team. Our personnel has taken a lot of pride in it.”
Peter Woods and Player-Led Leadership
Leadership has been a focal point for Clemson after back-to-back uneven offensive performances. Swinney was asked about defensive tackle Peter Woods delivering a fiery halftime speech during the Troy game.
“Yeah. I mean, I think again, that was positive, coming from a kind of a funky game, if you will, especially offensively, creating a lot of frustration two games in a row. We don’t play down low. Defensively, you got points on the board, probably give it up 112, touchdown. So can get a little frustrating, because I was proud how they hung together and kept encouraging each other.”
He went further, making it clear adversity has shown the true character of his roster:
“When we say adversity, people say it builds character, but it really reveals character. And I think you saw the character of our team and how they fought back and hung in the air probably win.”
Next Man Up on Punt Returns
With wide receiver Antonio Williams sidelined, Swinney confirmed Wesco will step into punt return duties.
“We worked in last year a good bit. He's just, we just trust him. He's a guy that feels small nationally. Decision maker, obviously he can run with it. So we've got, TJ is another guy we trust, cold trust. We've got a good group of guys, good corner guys, that have earned our trust, but Mexico's next man up.”
Bottom Line
Between injury updates, offensive rhythm talk, and special teams improvements, Swinney’s message was steady: the Tigers are heading to Atlanta with their best 80, tested leadership, and a renewed emphasis on execution.