Clemson Hires Former Offensive Coordinator to Revamp Struggling Attack

Chad Morris returns to Clemson to fix the Tigers' offensive woes after a disappointing season.

Jan. 28, 2026 at 5:15am

Clemson University has hired former offensive coordinator Chad Morris to revamp their struggling offense after a disappointing 2025 season. Morris, who previously served as Clemson's OC from 2011-2014, is tasked with restoring an identity to the Tigers' attack which lacked consistency and balance under the previous coordinator Garrett Riley's 'Dirt Raid' system.

Why it matters

Clemson is one of the premier college football programs in the country, and their offense has been a key part of their success over the past decade. After a down year in 2025, the Tigers are looking to get back on track and compete for a national championship, which will require upgrading their offensive production and scheme.

The details

Morris was Clemson's offensive coordinator from 2011-2014, helping guide the Tigers to an ACC championship and multiple top-25 finishes. He left to become the head coach at SMU, and later spent time as the offensive coordinator for the NFL's Denver Broncos. Now he returns to Clemson to replace Garrett Riley, whose 'Dirt Raid' offense struggled to consistently move the ball and establish the running game last season.

  • Clemson hired Chad Morris as their new offensive coordinator on January 25, 2026.

The players

Chad Morris

A veteran college and NFL coach who previously served as Clemson's offensive coordinator from 2011-2014, helping the Tigers win an ACC championship.

Garrett Riley

The former Clemson offensive coordinator whose 'Dirt Raid' offense failed to find an identity and produce consistent results in 2025.

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What they’re saying

“We're excited to welcome Chad back to Clemson. His track record of building successful offenses is exactly what we need to get our attack back on track.”

— Dabo Swinney, Clemson Head Coach

What’s next

Morris is expected to install a more balanced offensive approach that emphasizes the running game and deep passing, in contrast to the pass-heavy 'Dirt Raid' system used in 2025. Clemson's spring practice schedule will be crucial for Morris to implement his new offense.

The takeaway

Clemson is making a bold move to revamp their offense by bringing back a familiar face in Chad Morris. His track record of success at Clemson and elsewhere suggests he has the experience to restore an identity to the Tigers' attack and get them back to competing for championships.