A former and often-criticized Auburn Tigers offensive coordinator could play a key role in turning things around for the Clemson Tigers in 2026.
Chad Morris had a difficult stint at Auburn during the 2020 season, where his offensive leadership drew criticism and coincided with a decline in quarterback Bo Nix’s performance. His time there ultimately contributed to the dismissal of head coach Gus Malzahn.
However, Morris may have a chance to reshape his narrative at Clemson. With head coach Dabo Swinney facing mounting pressure after a disappointing 7–6 season and a bowl loss, analysts believe Morris could help rejuvenate the program. ESPN’s Bill Connelly suggests that despite mixed results in recent years, Morris could still improve Clemson’s struggling offense, which saw a sharp decline in efficiency last season.
Morris previously worked alongside Swinney from 2011 to 2014 as offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach, making this reunion a familiar partnership. More recently, he served as a wide receivers coach and passing game coordinator at Texas State in 2024, after a prior stint as an analyst at Clemson in 2023.
A Crucial Opportunity for Morris
The coming season may represent a pivotal moment in Morris’s career. Between 2015 and 2020, he endured a challenging run as a head coach with the SMU Mustangs and Arkansas Razorbacks, compiling an overall record of 18–40. His time at Arkansas was particularly difficult, including a winless conference record.
Despite those struggles, Morris built a strong reputation earlier in his career at the high school level, where he led Lake Travis High School in Texas to an undefeated 32–0 record. His deep recruiting ties in talent-rich regions remain a valuable asset.
Ultimately, both Morris and Swinney face significant pressure to deliver results. If Clemson fails to rebound especially in an era shaped by the transfer portal and NIL dynamics the opportunity for future coaching roles may become increasingly limited.
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