Fansided · Aug 14, 2025
Swinney’s ‘critical day’ scrimmage exposes some, elevates others as Clemson depth chart takes shape
Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney breaks down the Tigers' pivotal second preseason scrimmage where backups were pitted against starters.
Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney during Clemson football 2025 practice at Jervey Meadows in Clemson, S.C. Wednesday, August 6, 2025. | Ken Ruinard / USA Today Network South Carolina / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn ImagesFor Dabo Swinney, Thursday was more than just the final preseason scrimmage. It was a crucible designed to forge a championship roster. In what has become a staple of Clemson's preseason camp, Swinney pitted his second-string players against the starters, a high-stakes evaluation he believes reveals who is truly ready for the spotlight.