Will Helt’s return supercharges Clemson’s defensive hopes for 2026 amid roster turmoil. With NFL-bound stars like TJ Parker and Peter Woods departing, Morgan Thomas spotlights Helt as the defensive anchor Tigers fans desperately needed. Can Dabo Swinney’s squad rebuild its depth and raise its ceiling, or will portal moves and recruiting missteps leave the defense exposed?

Morgan Thomas also sounds the alarm on Clemson’s undermanned Pinstripe Bowl showdown vs. Penn State, with 26 players unavailable due to injuries, opt-outs, and transfers. Discussion heats up around Dabo’s roster management and controversial experiments like Ian Shefflin’s brief football stint. Are these decisions signs of strategic genius or costly misjudgments? Get the latest on Clemson’s transfer portal priorities, bowl game realities, and the leadership pressures shaping the Tigers’ future in college football’s new era.

00:00 "Clemson DE Returning in 2026"

03:59 Clemson Defense Anchored for 2026

08:58 Clemson's Defensive Line Strategy

10:53 Aura Frames: Easy Photo Sharing

13:15 Roster Challenges and Player Updates

18:24 "Questioning Rules and Values"

22:36 "Clemson Frustrations and Experiment Critique"

23:57 "Dabo's Hypocrisy on Values"

27:23 "Dabo's Sales Pitch Critique"

30:54 "Locked On Clemson Updates"

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Clemson Tigers eye Pinstripe Bowl dominance as Penn State reels from key opt outs and coaching turmoil. Can Cade Klubnik silence critics and steer Clemson to a confidence-boosting win in Yankee Stadium?

Morgan Thomas analyzes Penn State's emotional preparation, unstable roster, and reliance on workhorse back Katron Allen after losing Nick Singleton. Discussion focuses on Clemson's defensive strengths led by Tom Allen, the threat of Penn State’s run-first offense, and Klubnik’s potential game management woes. Concerns about opt outs on Clemson’s defensive front—Peter Woods, T.J. Parker, Avion Terrell—set the stage for a battle of attrition. With both programs seeking redemption after disappointing seasons, Morgan Thomas previews the paths to victory and questions if Dabo Swinney’s crew can capitalize and rebuild momentum.

Will the Tigers assert defensive grit, or will Penn State power through the trenches for a program-defining bowl win?

00:00 Clemson vs. Penn State Preview
05:55 "Bowl Games Are Disappearing"
12:17 "Clemson's Late-Season Defensive Improvement"
14:25 Clemson vs. Penn State Concerns
24:02 "Clemson vs. Penn State Analysis"

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FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

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Clemson Tigers fans brace for a new era as the "slow development" model fades in college football. Morgan Thomas spotlights the changing landscape, with the transfer portal and NIL accelerating roster churn and forcing coaches to rethink redshirt strategies. Jamal Anderson Jr.’s transfer becomes a lightning rod for debates about player recruitment, mismanagement, and fit—can Clemson continue competing without adapting faster?

Detailed analysis examines the Tigers’ pressing roster needs, including defensive line gaps and the importance of plug-and-play talent from the portal. Morgan Thomas questions whether Dabo Swinney’s conservative approach can fill likely 12-15 transfer spots and restore Clemson’s edge. The episode wraps with a bold take on 2025 NFL Draft futures: Peter Woods may be overrated, while Avion Terrell’s versatility raises his stock. Will Clemson’s strategy evolve in time to meet next season’s challenges?

00:00 "College Football's Changing Landscape"

04:23 "Senior Struggles: Risk of Transfer"

08:35 Player's Development Mismanaged

12:49 "Clemson's Portal Gap Frustrations"

15:10 Clemson's Transfer Portal Strategy

18:23 "Freshmen, Football, and Fast Expectations"

20:43 "FanDuel, Sports, and Off-Season"

24:01 "Draft Concerns for Woods & Terrell"

26:40 "Locked On Clemson Updates"

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Gametime
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FanDuel
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FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Clemson Tigers fans face a pivotal offseason as the quarterback room raises new questions—should Dabo Swinney turn to the transfer portal? Morgan Thomas argues that with Cade Klubnik’s departure and no proven starter among Christopher Vizzina, Chris Denson, or incoming freshman Tate Reynolds, the Tigers urgently need a portal upgrade—highlighting Sam Leavitt as a prime target to anchor Clemson’s offense in 2026.

The show also tackles sizzling fan debates over staff changes, including Mickey Conn, C.J. Spiller, and Tyler Grisham, while unpacking deeper issues with Clemson’s once-elite recruiting model in the NIL era. Can Clemson’s traditional selective offers keep up amid changing market dynamics and missed opportunities for star talent? Morgan Thomas breaks down what’s working, what’s not, and what Clemson must do to reclaim its ACC dominance as the Pinstripe Bowl looms.

00:00 Clemson's QB Transfer Debate

05:14 "Dabo's Approach to Freshmen QBs"

08:15 Transfer Portal & Recruiting Strategy

12:48 Mickey Khan's Struggles in Secondary

15:23 Clemson's Secondary Depth Issues

18:00 Portal Neglect Hurts Clemson Coaches

24:05 Clemson's Recruiting Model Examined

27:21 Recruiting Strategy Challenges Explained

28:42 Recruiting Adjustments for Clemson

32:45 "Join Locked On Exclusives"

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Gametime
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FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Clemson Tigers face a pivotal offseason as Khalil Barnes and Keith Adams Jr. hit the transfer portal, raising questions about depth and the future of the Tigers' secondary and backfield. Morgan Thomas breaks down Barnes' initial breakout, subsequent struggles with discipline and overconfidence, and why his departure could benefit Clemson’s defensive rebuild. The conversation highlights concerns about declining recruiting success, ineffective player development, and the pressing need for talent upgrades amid key losses on both sides of the ball.

Can Dabo Swinney adapt to the changing college football landscape and leverage the transfer portal to reload Clemson’s roster? Morgan Thomas scrutinizes C.J. Spiller’s running back rotation, addresses the challenges facing the Tigers’ offense, and outlines the must-win strategies for regaining competitiveness in the ACC. Don’t miss this candid evaluation of Clemson Tigers’ transfer portal shakeup and what lies ahead for one of college football’s most storied programs.

00:00 Transfer Portal Shake-Up: Clemson Update

03:15 "Khalil Barnes' Sophomore Slump"

09:13 Barnes Needs a Fresh Start

12:19 "Khalil Barnes' Exit: Positive Shift"

13:19 Player Criticism Sparks Debate

18:40 Inexperienced Coaching Hurts Clemson

21:31 Clemson's Offensive Struggles Persist

24:48 Clemson's Uncertain Offseason Future

28:52 Clemson's Crucial Offseason Challenge

30:22 "Clemson Updates: Transfers & More"

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Aura Frames
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Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Notre Dame’s postseason meltdown sparks backlash as Clemson fans unite in frustration over ACC drama and bowl selection chaos. Can the Fighting Irish demand special treatment while remaining independent, or should the ACC finally lay down the law? Morgan Thomas pulls no punches, questioning Notre Dame’s refusal of bowl invitations and dissecting accusations against the ACC’s loyalty during playoff lobbying.

Key talking points include Clemson’s status as the ACC’s most coveted bowl team—even after a 7–5 season—while traditional powerhouses like Florida State and Miami get sidelined by the ever-murky playoff committee. Morgan Thomas critiques bowl season’s slow collapse as programs and star players opt out in record numbers, and fires shots at Alabama’s playoff selection over deserving teams. Is college football headed toward a super league and the end of iconic bowls? Don’t miss this heated breakdown of a sport at the crossroads.

00:00 Notre Dame AD Criticizes ACC

04:29 "ACC Tiebreaker Chaos Critique"

09:33 "Notre Dame and ACC Tensions"

11:11 "World Cup Tickets Made Easy"

13:57 "Postseason Changes and Bowl Decline"

19:52 Alabama vs. Notre Dame Debate

21:09 "Omaha Steaks: Holiday Perfection"

24:22 "Bowl Games Facing Uncertain Future"

28:07 "Subscribe to Locked On Clemson"

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Gametime
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FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Clemson Tigers face their most critical offseason in a decade, as debate intensifies over Garrett Riley’s future as offensive coordinator and quarterback Cade Klubnik’s ability to deliver in big moments. Can Riley spark a turnaround with a fresh talent under center and finally unlock the Tigers’ offensive identity?

Morgan Thomas spotlights Clemson’s recruiting surge, including the explosive Daniel High School wide receiver Trey Wembley for 2027, and breaks down the strategic advantage gained from program stability while rivals like Penn State and Georgia Tech struggle with coaching chaos. Key topics include the impact of Tyler Grisham’s elite receiver group, Clemson’s run game woes, and the ACC’s dwindling national relevance as championship ticket prices plummet. Will the Tigers reclaim dominance, or will missed decisions keep them on the outside looking in at the College Football Playoff?

00:00 Clemson Offense: Riley Without Clubnik

03:12 Clemson's Quarterback Struggles, 2025

06:33 Quarterback Traits & Limitations Discussion

13:25 Clemson's Future Playmakers Commit

16:32 Clemson’s Elite Recruiting Future

18:13 Clemson's Stability at Receiver

21:37 Nationwide Updates: Clemson's Advantage

26:17 "ACC Championship Game's Struggles"

30:10 Locked On Clemson & ACC

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Gametime
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FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Clemson Tigers’ latest recruiting class sparks comparisons to the iconic 2011 group. Can Dabo Swinney’s commitment-centric approach lay the foundation for another championship run? The nationwide reach of Clemson football remains strong after a challenging season, with standout prospects like Burroughs, Anderson, and Barclay leading the charge. How much does grit and fit outweigh star ratings in building a winning culture?

Morgan Thomas breaks down the strengths and quiet potential of Clemson’s quarterback room, spotlighting new arrivals Brock Bradley and Tate Reynolds as catalysts for competition and confidence. The episode examines the Tigers’ national brand, ongoing recruiting rivalries with Florida State and South Carolina, and pressing roster needs, especially at quarterback. Will supplementing the roster with targeted transfer portal additions restore Clemson’s edge in the ACC?

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Aura Frames
For a limited time, save on the perfect gift by visiting https://AuraFrames.com to get $35 off Aura’s best-selling Carver Mat frames - named #1 by Wirecutter - by using promo code COLLEGE at checkout.

Gametime
Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONCOLLEGE for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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