Paul Finebaum Names College Football Powerhouse In Rapid Decline

The Clemson Tigers were one of the top college football programs of the 2010s, boasting a record of 117-23, the second most wins in the decade, trailing only the Alabama Crimson Tide.

The 83.6% win percentage ranked third, behind only Alabama and the Ohio State Buckeyes. Clemson was also one of just two teams to win multiple national championships during that decade.

In recent years, the Tigers have struggled to sustain their previous success. Since 2020 , Clemson has a 40-12 record, achieving a win percentage of 76.9%. This places them at No. 6 in total wins and No. 7 in win percentage. Despite having a strong program, ESPN's Paul Finebaum believes that Clemson has not maintained its earlier level of performance.

"They have a good program, but they are not what they used to be," Finebaum said. "I think that's going to be difficult for them to get used to."

The preseason AP Top 25 revealed Clemson's perceived national decline, as the Tigers are ranked No. 14. This is their lowest ranking since 2014, when they went 10-3 and won the Russell Athletic Bowl. Additionally, this marks the first time since 2015 that Clemson has not been ranked in the preseason top 10.

So, it will be up to the Tigers to change the narrative and restore Clemson to its once prominent self.

Related: Fans Fed Up With Top College Football Coach's Strange Transfer Portal Strategy