SEC Analyst Paul Finebaum Declares Clemson Tigers Will Be ‘Incredibly Difficult to Beat’ During Their Dominant 2025 College Football Campaign
In a statement that has rippled across the college football world, longtime SEC analyst Paul Finebaum gave the Clemson Tigers one of the highest compliments imaginable during a segment on ESPN’s Get Up this week.
“Clemson will be incredibly difficult to beat this year,” Finebaum said. “They’ve got the most complete roster they’ve had in years, and this is starting to look like the Clemson team that was competing for national titles.”
Coming from Finebaum—who has built his reputation as a passionate voice of the SEC—this declaration turned heads. His take is not just high praise, but a sign that Clemson is once again on the verge of becoming a powerhouse in the national championship race.
The Clemson Comeback: Built, Not Bought
After a few transitional years post-Trevor Lawrence and post-Travis Etienne, Dabo Swinney has quietly rebuilt a championship-caliber program, the Clemson way—focusing on culture, development, and long-term player growth.
The 2024 season saw Clemson finish 10–3, showing consistent progress on both sides of the ball. Their late-season dominance, including a resounding win over North Carolina and a tight battle against Florida State, gave fans a glimpse of what’s possible when all the pieces click.
Now, with returning stars and emerging talent, Clemson enters 2025 with a dangerous blend of experience and hunger.
“They’re not rebuilding anymore,” Finebaum emphasized. “They’ve reloaded—and they look every bit like a playoff contender.”
Defense Wins Titles—And Clemson’s Is Loaded
Much of the optimism surrounding Clemson centers on their defense, widely regarded as one of the top units in the nation. The Tigers return nine starters from a group that finished top-five nationally in total defense last season.
Leading the charge is All-American linebacker Barrett Carter, a vocal leader and explosive tackler with NFL first-round potential. Cornerback Toriano Pride Jr. anchors a lockdown secondary, while defensive tackle Peter Woods returns as a disruptive force in the trenches.
“This might be the best defense in the country not named Georgia,” Finebaum said. “They’re fast, physical, and deep.”
Their ability to dominate at the line of scrimmage and contain high-powered offenses makes them a legitimate threat to any opponent on their schedule.
Offense Finding Its Rhythm
On offense, quarterback Cade Klubnik has taken a major leap forward in leadership and performance. After an up-and-down sophomore campaign, Klubnik reportedly had a strong spring and is showing improved decision-making and poise.
He’ll be working behind an offensive line that has quietly become a strength, thanks to development and key transfers. The return of explosive playmaker Tyler Brown at wide receiver and bruising back Phil Mafah in the run game gives the Tigers balance and firepower.
If Klubnik delivers consistently, Clemson’s offense could become the perfect complement to their dominant defense.
Finebaum’s Words Carry Weight
Paul Finebaum doesn’t hand out praise lightly—especially outside the SEC. His decision to spotlight Clemson suggests a broader shift in how the national media is viewing the Tigers heading into 2025.
“Dabo’s been here before. He knows what it takes. This is the most dangerous team outside the SEC this year, bar none,” Finebaum concluded.
This endorsement from one of college football’s most influential voices reinforces the belief that Clemson isn’t just “back”—they’re built to contend.
The Road Ahead
Clemson’s 2025 schedule is no cakewalk. The Tigers open the season with a high-profile showdown against Tennessee in Atlanta, followed by a pair of tough early ACC games against Florida State and NC State.
Win those, and Clemson will be firmly in the College Football Playoff conversation by midseason. Their late-season clashes with Notre Dame and Miami could determine whether they punch a ticket to the postseason—or even a shot at a national title.
With the ACC’s new scheduling format and the expanded 12-team playoff on the horizon, Clemson is in prime position to capitalize.
After a few years of questions and recalibration, Clemson is roaring back into the national spotlight—and Finebaum’s stamp of approval adds fuel to the fire.
They have the roster. They have the coach. They have the momentum.
Now, the only question left is: Who’s ready to try and stop them?
