Clemson Changes Coaching Staff Following Disappointing Season

Clemson’s tough season led to some big changes—but curiously, head coach Dabo Swinney isn’t among those affected.

The university has confirmed that offensive coordinator Garrett Riley and long-time safeties coach Mickey Conn will not continue with the team next season.

Expectations were sky-high at the start of the season, yet the Tigers finished with a lackluster record of 7-6. They didn’t make it to the ACC Championship Game or the College Football Playoff. After starting off strong at 16th in the rankings, they ended on a low note with a 22-10 defeat to Penn State in the Pinstripe Bowl held at Yankee Stadium.

Riley, who came to Clemson from TCU in 2023, faced the ax after a season where the offense became a significant point of frustration for Swinney. In 2024, the team’s offense averaged 34.7 points (which ranked 18th nationally), but by 2025, that number had stagnated to 27.2, placing them 70th.

“At the end of the day, we just didn’t see the production or results we expected. It’s time for a change, so we’re going in a different direction with the offensive coordinator,” Swinney stated.

He added, “I want to thank Garrett for everything he’s done here, for his leadership, and for helping us win another ACC Championship in 2024. I appreciate the work ethic and intelligence he brought to our program, but things just didn’t pan out as we hoped. I believe he has a bright future ahead.” Interestingly, Riley, who is only 36, is also the younger brother of USC coach Lincoln Riley and stands among the top-paid assistants nationwide, with a salary of $1.75 million for the upcoming season.

Conn, having spent 10 years with the Tigers, has chosen to step down amid growing concerns about player safety.

In reflecting on Conn’s contributions, Swinney expressed gratitude: “I’m thankful for Mickey and all he’s done for Clemson. I believe he has exciting opportunities ahead, especially as he looks to possibly take the next step in his career.”