Clemson Head Coach Dabo Swinney recently opened up about the ongoing rumors surrounding the team’s dissatisfaction with its status in the Atlantic Coast Conference and its television contract.
Speaking to Matt Hladik of Sports Illustrated, Swinney had a candid response regarding the ACC situation and what he envisions for the future of college football.
“Lot happening out there, my job is to get the team ready to play, that’s my job,” Swinney stated, highlighting his focus on preparing his team for the upcoming season. “I don’t get caught up in all that stuff. Honestly, it’s just the next domino to where it’s all going.. It is what it is.”
I don’t know if it’s going to be this year, or midseason, or next year or three years from now. Eventually, we’re going to have, I don’t know what the number is, 40 of 50 teams, something like that, and it’s going to be a 14 or 16-team playoff type of deal.”
“That’s where it’s going to be. I don’t know what the league is going to be called, or the divisions, or whatever. That’s where it’s going to go eventually.”
These statements come amidst growing concerns from several ACC schools, most notably Florida State, about the conference’s future and their ability to compete effectively within it.
The ACC’s grant of rights, which binds member schools to the conference through 2036, adds complexity to any potential departure or realignment plans.
As the rumors continue to swirl, both Clemson and Florida State football programs are faced with uncertainties about their long-term prospects within the ACC. It remains to be seen if they can find a way to navigate the current situation and potentially explore options for joining a different conference.
The evolving landscape of college football has sparked discussions about potential changes to the structure of the sport. Swinney’s remarks suggest that he envisions a future with a more extensive playoff system, encompassing a larger number of teams.
While the specific details remain uncertain, his candid comments imply that college football’s landscape is destined for transformation sooner or later.
What do you think is going to happen with Clemson and Florida State?
More importantly, what do you think college football is going to look like in a few years?
Two large super conferences – and then all the “small guys” off to the side?
(You could make the argument we’re almost there already.)