Dabo Swinney
Let’s start with a quick recap of what was discussed recently: Swinney’s seat is not hot. It is not warm. There is no legitimate argument that he is in ‘trouble’ in any way whatsoever. Swinney doesn’t need to prove anything as it relates to job security.
The negativity surrounding him within the fanbase comes from fans who believe Swinney’s philosophy of using NIL for ‘retention, not acquisition’ is hurting the program. I think it is safe to say they don’t want him fired. They want him to adapt.
That segment of the fanbase has been a historical minority. It grows larger with every season that the Tigers fail to improve.
General attitudes about NIL and players who consider NIL as an important part of their recruitment have changed as well. The perception that any player who prioritizes NIL is a gold digger has diminished overall. The notion that accepting transfers will damage the culture of the program is being challenged like never before, and the Clemson Men's Basketball and Clemson Baseball programs are being cited as the main evidence that using the portal can improve a team without eroding culture.
It is still safe to say that the vast majority of the fanbase supports Swinney, but another season of stagnation will increase the size of the segment that believes he is failing to use all the resources at his command.
If the team is successful in 2024, the opposite happens. Fans who have been critical will have what they want: an improved Tiger team. Swinney will have proven that his methodology can work.
Swinney doesn’t need to prove anything to protect his job, but he needs to lead the Tigers to a successful 2024 season to squash the belief that his NIL/recruiting philosophy won’t work in modern college football. Another 8-4 regular season or worse won't be considered a success.