Despite finishing the 2025 season unranked after a highly disappointing 7-6 season, Clemson still landed at No. 23 in the 2026 preseason Coaches Poll that was released Aug. 4. For Clemson, USA Today says it’s whether new offensive coordinator Chad Morris can “fix things on the ground and on third down.” “The Tigers will need to hit the ground running with the season opener at home against Clemson,” Myerberg wrote. Clemson will face one other preseason Coaches Poll Top 25 team during the regular season — No.