Greg McElroy Names College Football Powerhouse That Is Flying Under The Radar

Over the past few seasons, Clemson has failed to live up to the lofty standard that was set as the Tigers established themselves as CFP National Championship contenders. The program has failed to qualify for the College Football Playoff in three consecutive seasons.

ESPN's Greg McElroy believes that things are starting to change for head coach Dabo Swinney and the Tigers. He speculated that Clemson is flying under the radar ahead of the 2024 season due to the limited success over the past three seasons.

"One thing I know for sure, though, is that Clemson is going to have a super elite defense this year," said McElroy. "If you look at the young pieces that were thrust into the starting lineup after about week eight or nine last year, T.J. Parker, Khalil Barnes, Avieon Terrell, Peter Woods, those guys got way more time down the stretch, and the biggest jump you make as a player oftentimes is from year one to year two.

"They were already good in year one. I can only imagine what they're going to look like in Wes Goodwin's system this year. Don't sleep on Clemson because that defense is built like a championship unit at all three levels."

The Tigers' struggles on offense, paired with coach Dabo Swinney's questionable use of the transfer portal, are the biggest reasons why some are questioning Clemson's ability to compete at the highest level of college football.

McElroy still sees plenty of potential entering next season, and the Tigers could surprise a lot of people this season. The Tigers are looking to win the third conference championship in the past four seasons.

Clemson will be tested early as the Tigers will face Georgia in a massive Week 1 matchup in Atlanta.

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