One popular theory for Clemson's decline is Swinney's reluctance to embrace transfers as a way to strengthen the roster. However, this explanation may not be entirely accurate. With the NCAA's coronavirus waiver allowing fifth- and sixth-year seniors to remain on rosters, there is a case for adding physically mature players to the team instead of relying solely on freshmen and sophomores.
While Clemson's defense has remained strong, their offense has taken a more drastic decline. This cannot be solely attributed to the shortcomings of former quarterback DJ Uiagalelei or new starter Cade Klubnik. The issue seems to lie in the receiving corps. In the past, Clemson consistently produced 1,000-yard wide receivers, but recently they have struggled in that area.
This suggests that there may be issues with recruiting evaluations and player development, as well as facing older and more experienced defenses. It is likely a combination of factors rather than just one thing or one position group.
While the transfer portal could help address some of Clemson's weaknesses, it is unlikely to solve all of them. The program still has many advantages and has the potential for a strong comeback. However, they will need to engage in self-reflection and make necessary changes after their disappointing loss to Duke.
The first full opening weekend of college football left many feeling unsatisfied with the competitiveness of the games. There were a lot of blowouts, with the teams from the five autonomous conferences and Notre Dame dominating. Nearly half of the winners won by at least 28 points, and 81.5% won by at least two touchdowns. Only a few schools outside of the top conferences managed to pull off upsets. This could be due to a lack of must-see games in the schedule or a sign that the top-tier teams have vacuumed up most of the talent.
In other news, Tulane will face a ranked SEC opponent for the first time since 1956 when they play Mississippi. Tulane was an SEC school at the time but left after the 1965 season. The current Tulane team is coming off an impressive season and could be just as good this year. Head coach Willie Fritz has had success at every level of coaching, and Tulane has finished .500 or better in four of the past five seasons, which hasn't happened since the 1950s. However, Tulane did lose to Georgia Tech in the 1956 game and fell out of the rankings.
In terms of individual performances, Florida State wide receiver Keon Coleman had a standout game with nine catches, 122 yards, and three touchdowns receiving. He quickly made an impact after transferring from Michigan State. Colorado's Travis Hunter also had an impressive performance with 11 catches, 119 yards receiving, three tackles, two passes broken up, and one interception. Hunter is a two-way threat and had a strong debut after spending last season at Jackson State. The question now is whether he can maintain such a high level of play week after week.
4. Quarterback Michael Penix Jr. from Washington had an impressive performance against Boise State, a team known for their strong defense in recent years. Penix threw for 450 yards and five touchdowns, leading his team to victory in their season opener.
5. Defensive end Kaimon Rucker from North Carolina had a standout game against South Carolina. Despite the slim chances of a defensive player winning the Heisman, Rucker deserves recognition for his dominant performance. He recorded eight tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, and two sacks, contributing to his team's victory.
6. Quarterback Sam Hartman from Notre Dame had an outstanding game against Tennessee State. Although he wasn't heavily relied upon due to the opponent's strength, Hartman still managed to throw for 445 yards and six touchdowns, while also scoring one rushing touchdown. He will now face N.C. State, a team he is familiar with from his time at Wake Forest.
