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Dabo Swinney was crying after Clemson’s loss

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports | By Grey Papke | Last updated Sep 20, 2025 8:02 PM ET

Clemson coach Dabo Swinney looked like he was on the verge of tears after the Tigers suffered a stunning home loss to Syracuse on Saturday.

Swinney and his team joined together to sing the traditional Alma Mater at Clemson Memorial Stadium in Clemson, S.C. Saturday following their 34-21 loss to Syracuse. The Clemson coach appeared to be in tears and visibly defeated as he was comforted by running back Adam Randall.

Clemson HC Dabo Swinney crying after today’s loss to Syracuse pic.twitter.com/HVxTg1X4Rx
— Fire somebody at Clemson, MBA (@Cambology) September 20, 2025

The loss dropped Clemson to 1-3 and essentially eliminates any chance of them playing in a major postseason event. That is a harsh dose of reality for Swinney, who passionately defended himself and his accomplishments in the lead-up to the game.

If Swinney was expecting a response from his players, he did not get one. Clemson never led in the game and trailed 24-7 at one point during the second quarter. Clemson did narrowly outgain Syracuse, but they also turned the ball over twice in the defeat.

The criticism of Swinney will only escalate after Saturday’s defeat. He obviously loves the school, but the results are not there right now.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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