Chad Morris Outlines His Vision for Clemson's Offense

The new offensive coordinator aims to build a tough, run-focused attack that can also change pace.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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In a recent podcast interview, newly hired Clemson offensive coordinator Chad Morris discussed his plans to transform the Tigers' offense. Morris emphasized the importance of establishing a strong running game and being able to vary the tempo, in contrast to the frenetic pace his offenses were known for during his previous stint at Clemson over a decade ago. He believes an effective ground game is key to building a tough, physical identity for the entire team.

Why it matters

Clemson struggled to run the ball effectively in 2025, which was a factor in the departure of the previous offensive coordinator. Morris' focus on the running game and adaptable tempo represents a strategic shift aimed at getting the offense back on track and supporting the defense.

The details

Morris wants Clemson's offense to have a distinct identity centered around a physical, two-back, run-oriented attack that can also utilize play-action passing. He believes this style of play will make the entire team tougher. While Clemson was known for its frenetic pace under Morris previously, he recognizes that defenses have adapted, so he plans to vary the tempo more to keep opponents off balance.

  • Morris previously served as Clemson's offensive coordinator from 2011 to 2015.

The players

Chad Morris

The new offensive coordinator at Clemson, who previously held the same role with the Tigers from 2011 to 2015 before leaving to become a head coach at SMU.

Dabo Swinney

The head coach at Clemson, who decided to move on from the previous offensive coordinator and hire Morris to revamp the Tigers' offense.

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What they’re saying

“You always have to continue to study what's next. What is the better mousetrap that is being built out there. When I left here in 2015 to go to SMU, and then moving on from there, I was able to study the evolution of offenses. And really more so the evolution of defenses and how they were catching up.”

— Chad Morris, Offensive Coordinator (The Clemson Insider)

“The ability to change the pace of play. Tempo is still a thing, but it is the ability to get in and out of structure and still play with pace. That is the challenging part, especially talking to defensive coordinators... 'Hey we love playing people that want to play fast all the time. We are great with that.' But it is the teams that change the pace is what gives us the most problems. And they do it in different personnel groupings.”

— Chad Morris, Offensive Coordinator (The Clemson Insider)

What’s next

Morris will have the opportunity to implement his new offensive vision when Clemson opens spring practice in March.

The takeaway

After a decade away, Chad Morris is returning to Clemson with a refined offensive philosophy focused on physical, run-first football that can also adjust its tempo. His goal is to build a tough, well-rounded offense that supports the Tigers' defense and returns the program to championship contention.