Dabo Swinney left his doubters, including “Tyler from Spartanburg, S.C.”, a message for writing off Clemson ahead of the Tigers’ 31–23 upset against No. 15 Notre Dame on Saturday at Death Valley.
During the Swinney’s Tiger Calls radio show on Monday, Tyler spent more than two minutes questioning why Swinney was earning more than $10 million each season for Clemson to be just 4–4 entering Saturday’s contest. Although many things have not gone in the Tigers’ favor this season, Swinney’s faith in his team has never wavered.
On Saturday, the Tigers sent the Fighting Irish back to South Bend, Ind., with their third loss of the season.
CLEMSON BEATS NO. 15 NOTRE DAME!
— Sports Illustrated (@SInow) November 4, 2023
The Tigers get the 31-23 win at home to hand the Fighting Irish their third loss pic.twitter.com/juaFy2BAfe
Moments after the game, Swinney delivered a powerful statement on the broadcast as fans circled around him near the paw at Frank Howard Field.
“We ain’t had much go our way this year, but the one thing that has shown up every week is the heart and the fight of Clemson,” Swinney said. “And I know we’re down and everybody’s throwing dirt on us, but if Clemson’s a stock, you better buy all you freaking can buy right now. Let’s go!”
TYLER FROM SPARTANBURGpic.twitter.com/FoR3RGOw1U
— The Solid Verbal College Football Podcast (@SolidVerbal) November 4, 2023
With Clemson’s win, Swinney earned the 166th victory of his career, making him the winningest coach in program history. He surpassed Frank Howard’s 165 wins, eclipsing a feat that was in place for 54 years.
Clemson (5–4) returns to action next Saturday against Georgia Tech at Death Valley.