Clemson University’s football program has taken significant steps to revamp its coaching staff following a disappointing season that culminated in a 7-6 record—the team’s second-worst performance in the 17-year tenure of head coach Dabo Swinney. On December 29, the university announced the firings of offensive coordinator Garrett Riley and defensive passing game coordinator/safeties coach Mickey Conn.
The decision to part ways with Conn is notable given that it marks only the third time Swinney has fired a non-coordinator assistant since 2011. The safety position had particularly struggled throughout the season, contributing to the team’s ranking of 119th nationally in passing yards allowed per game. This defensive weakness was evident in several games, with significant coverage busts leading to losses against teams like SMU and Duke.
In a statement, Swinney expressed his gratitude to Conn, stating, “Coach Conn is someone that I’ve known since 1990 and he truly is family to me. He has done an amazing job here at Clemson.” Despite this personal connection, the coaching shake-up was necessary following the underwhelming season and the failure to qualify for both the ACC championship and the College Football Playoff, despite strong preseason expectations.
Looking back, the safety unit faced considerable challenges, including the departure of R.J. Mickens, who had exhausted his eligibility, and the lack of additions through the transfer portal. This situation forced the Tigers to rely on players like Ronan Hanafin, a wide receiver converted to defense, and others who struggled with injuries throughout the season. The defensive struggles reached a critical point during the Duke game, prompting Swinney to address the secondary directly before halftime.
In an effort to improve communication and performance, Clemson’s newly appointed defensive coordinator, Tom Allen, restructured how meetings were conducted for the secondary. This change ultimately resulted in a drop in coverage busts during the last five games of the season, although the initial damage had already been done with a staggering average of 251.2 passing yards allowed per game.
On the recruiting front, Clemson’s challenges continued with only one safety, four-star Polo Anderson, being signed in 2026 after two others decommitted. Additionally, the loss of Khalil Barnes to the transfer portal further complicated the Tigers’ defensive roster.
Conn, who had a contract worth $2.85 million over three years, will receive a $1 million payout following the early termination of his agreement. His buyout could be adjusted if he secures new employment in the interim.
This coaching overhaul reflects Swinney’s commitment to restoring Clemson’s competitive edge on the field, signaling potential improvements for the future as the program looks to bounce back from a challenging year. With dedicated leadership and strategic recruitment, the Tigers may well regain their status as a formidable force in college football.