Clemson’s first live scrimmage of the preseason leaned in favor of the defense, with two touchdowns on the day.
“One was just a great play by Tink Kelley, a switch route, just a great play,” Swinney said. “And then another one was Strozier just taking the ball away from the receiver and going and scoring.”
The defensive scores came off interceptions from both Cade Klubnik and Christopher Vizzina, though Swinney was quick to note, “I’ll have to look at the tape, but I think both of them were more great plays on the defensive side than bad decisions.”
Breakout Freshman on the D-Line
Even without Khalil Barnes available, Clemson’s secondary depth was a “real bright spot” in camp. But it wasn’t just the defensive backs turning heads — Swinney singled out a true freshman on the defensive line.
“Ian is physical, willing, not afraid — and getting better every day,” he said. “Technique-wise, he’s got some work to do, but he’s just a natural.”
Quarterbacks Respond After Mistakes
Despite the turnovers, Swinney liked how his QBs bounced back.
“Cade came back and made a couple of elite throws down there in the goal line,” he said. “Vizzina continues to do some good things. Trent Pearman made some good plays. And then Chris Denson reminded everybody why we signed him — he’s a really good runner.”
Running Backs Quietly Impress
While the defensive plays grabbed attention, Swinney made sure to spotlight a position group he feels is underrated.
“I know nobody thinks we’ve got good players there,” he said with a grin, “but I like our running backs. I think we’ve got a good group. They were productive today.”
Balanced Battle in the Trenches
Neither side of the line dominated — a reflection of the experience Clemson brings on both fronts.
“Burley flashed a couple of sacks, made some nice plays,” Swinney noted. “Our linebackers continue to trend in the right direction... they’re all doing a nice job.”
Clean Football, Even in August
For a first scrimmage, discipline stood out.
“We only had two penalties today, which is really rare in a first scrimmage,” Swinney said. “It was pretty clean, and we had ACC officials here.”
Team Bonding Before the Grind
The scrimmage capped a grueling stretch of 13 straight days together. Swinney broke up the grind with a team trip to Lake Keowee on Thursday — a tradition meant to give players a mental break.
“It’s a great way to get them out on the lake, show them the beauty of this area, and let them reset before we get back to work,” he said.
Looking Ahead
With one more preseason scrimmage before game prep begins, Swinney is encouraged by what he’s seen.
“We’ve got a lot of work to do,” he said, “but the team competed hard on both sides — and that’s exactly what you want right now.”