Clemson Tigers face a pivotal crossroads as the Pinstripe Bowl against Penn State signals a major shift for Dabo Swinney’s program. Can embracing the transfer portal and making aggressive roster moves restore Clemson’s championship swagger? Morgan Thomas dissects the impact of portal additions like Will Helt, Jeremiah Alexander, and Tristan Smith, challenging long-standing philosophies and spotlighting the urgent need for upgrades at quarterback, offensive line, and key defensive positions.

What does the future hold for offensive coordinator Garrett Riley, and can Cade Klubnik deliver one last solid showing in the snow? Insights cover Clemson’s roster gaps, lingering culture debates, and questions about play-calling consistency heading into 2026. With Penn State standing in as a formidable opponent in football “purgatory,” this analysis uncovers whether the Tigers are ready to transform—or risk fading in the ACC hierarchy.

00:00 Clemson’s Future, Portal, and Changes
04:19 Clemson Players' Performance Highlights
09:11 Clemson's Growing Struggles Ahead
11:28 "Locked On Clemson Updates"
13:36 Teams in Limbo and Transition
18:00 Clemson's Future: Challenges Ahead
21:51 Clemson's Offense Needs Identity
26:32 "Locked On Clemson Updates"
27:38 "Locked On College Football".

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Clemson Tigers face off against Penn State in the Pinstripe Bowl—can Dabo Swinney’s squad finish a turbulent season on a high note? Morgan Thomas explores why this bowl game still matters for Clemson fans, despite roster shakeups, opt-outs, and a challenging year for stars like Cade Klubnik and Wade Woodaz.

Get analysis on swing factors including Clemson’s run defense against Penn State’s Katron Allen, how depleted lineups could impact strategy, and what’s at stake for seniors suiting up for the final time. Morgan Thomas highlights the significance of bowl traditions, program culture, and what this matchup reveals about the Tigers’ foundation heading into 2026. Will Clemson football prove their resilience, or does Penn State have the edge in the trenches? Tune in for insights, passionate commentary, and holiday football anticipation.

00:00 "Bowl Games Still Matter"
04:12 "Bowl Games and Program Legacy"
09:03 "Dependable Foundations for Success"
12:37 Clemson-Penn State Redemption Game
13:46 "Clemson vs. Penn State Concerns"
18:56 "Ugly Season, Key Matchup Insights"
20:57 Resilience Defines Clemson's Season
24:50 "15 Years of Resilient Teams"
30:24 "Locked on Clemson Bowl Preview"
31:16 "Gift Everydayer Club Subscription"

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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.

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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 face a crossroads: can Dabo Swinney’s program reclaim its elite status, or has the new era of college football left them behind? Morgan Thomas tackles fans’ toughest questions, breaking down the impact of NIL, the transfer portal, and recent postseason woes on Clemson’s future. As debate rages about bowl game relevance and roster opt-outs, are Tiger loyalists being shortchanged by the evolving landscape?

Explore why ACC dominance remains non-negotiable for Clemson and how strict adherence to old strategies might be holding the Tigers back. Insightful commentary highlights the challenges of maintaining high standards in recruitment, player evaluation, and competitiveness amidst sweeping changes across college football. Will Clemson adapt and thrive, or risk slipping deeper into irrelevance?.

00:00 "College Football: Frustrations & Future"
04:57 "Fixing College Football Playoffs"
08:55 Penn State Staff and Bowl Context
13:06 "Is Clemson's Elite Era Over?"
15:57 "Expanded Playoffs Level the Field"
21:06 Clemson's Patience May Be Tested
23:51 "Locked On Clemson Promo Details"
28:08 "Clemson's Strategy and Recruitment Debate"
30:37 "Standards, Competition, and Improvement"
32:37 "Clemson's Player Evaluation Questions"

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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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Clemson Tigers prepare for a defining showdown against Penn State in the Pinstripe Bowl, stripped of key players but not their competitive spirit. Can Cade Klubnik rise to the challenge and secure a crucial win for the future of Clemson football? Host Morgan Thomas highlights the resilience of both squads after seasons that fell short of expectations—shedding light on Clemson’s depleted roster, urgent portal needs, and the coaching staff’s determination to win, not just develop young talent.

Key topics include Klubnik’s opportunity to bolster his draft stock, Penn State’s quarterback transition, and why oddsmakers still favor Clemson despite missing 27 players. The episode tackles transfer portal strategies, depth concerns, and what this matchup reveals about both programs’ foundations as they head toward a new era. Will experience and leadership trump adversity, or does Penn State’s ground game exploit Clemson’s weakness up front? Don’t miss this bowl preview packed with analysis and bold predictions.

00:00 "Defining Moment for Clemson"
04:33 Clemson's Depth and Future Challenges
06:14 "Stability vs. Turmoil in Football"
10:07 Clemson's Bowl Game Expectations
15:25 Cade Klubnick's Leadership and Progress
18:55 Clemson Values Loyalty Above All
20:26 "Clemson's Team Must Step Up"
24:12 Clemson's Stability Under Dabo
27:35 "Clemson vs. Penn State Preview"

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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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Clemson Tigers approach a critical crossroads as quarterback uncertainty and roster depth threaten their postseason hopes. Is the search for a new signal-caller in the transfer portal enough to restore Clemson’s dominance—or will roster gaps keep the Tigers from roaring back?\n\n[Morgan Thomas] spotlights the Tigers’ quarterback conundrum, discussing Cade Klubnik’s performance, the potential addition of Sam Levitt, and the development timeline for prospects like Tate Reynolds and Christopher Vezina. Key topics include Clemson’s recruiting challenges, issues with offensive and defensive line depth, and the impact of mounting injuries ahead of the Penn State bowl game. As [Morgan Thomas] explores Dabo Swinney’s evolving strategy, fans are left asking: Can Clemson adapt their approach to avoid another season of thin margins and underwhelming results?\n\nGet the insights that matter most as the Tigers’ future hangs in the balance.

00:00 "Locked On Clemson Introduction"
04:29 Clemson Considering Transfer Quarterback
08:07 "Opinion on Team Improvement"
09:59 "Quarterbacks, Coaching, and Finances"
16:05 "Dabo's Future QB Dilemma"
18:24 "Clemson’s QB Dilemma"
20:27 Holiday Shopping & Clemson Insights
25:33 Clemson's Depth and Development Struggles
27:32 "Clemson's Future and Bowl Game"

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Omaha Steaks
Save big on unforgettable gifts with Omaha Steaks. Visit https://OmahaSteaks.com for 50% off site-wide and an extra 20% off select favorites during their Cyber Sale.
And for an additional $35 off, use promo code COLLEGE at checkout.

Wayfair
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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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ACC Football faces chaos as tiebreaker controversies and unbalanced conference schedules threaten to spark major drama in 2025. Can programs like Miami and Clemson restore dominance and salvage national respect for the league? Alex Donno, Jackson Holzer, Kenton Gibbs, and Isaac Schade debate how new championship tiebreakers, uneven ACC schedules, and transfer portal shakeups could either doom the conference or open the door for a new powerhouse.

Get expert analysis on Miami’s College Football Playoff chances versus Texas A&M, the fallout of coaching carousel moves at Georgia Tech and Florida State, and why Clemson’s future under Dabo Swinney is at a crossroads. Plus, bold predictions, hard-hitting takes on the league’s best teams, and the looming question—does the ACC have a true national title contender, or is a rebuilding year inevitable?

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Clemson Tigers stay the course as Garrett Riley remains offensive coordinator—despite swirling rumors and fan pressure. Can Dabo Swinney’s staff spark a true offensive revival with Riley at the helm and a new quarterback on the horizon?\n\nMorgan Thomas breaks down Riley’s press conference ahead of the Pinstripe Bowl against Penn State, spotlighting Clemson’s developmental focus as they evaluate young talent like Juju Preston and Jeremiah Alexander. Key topics include Cade Klubnik’s final game, challenges on the offensive line, and the importance of bowl practices for shaping the 2026 depth chart. Plus, basketball takes a tough hit as freshman Zach Foster suffers a season-ending ACL injury, raising questions about Clemson’s tournament ceiling and Brad Brownell’s next move.

00:00 "Clemson Updates: Football & More"
04:54 "Garrett Riley, Clemson, and Challenges"
09:10 "Backup Bowl and Dabo's Rebound"
11:46 "Garrett Riley's Development-Focused Bowl Prep"
15:30 Focus Shifts to Future Development
18:02 Clemson's Depth Tested Amid Injuries
22:33 Clemson Star Suffers Leg Injury
25:05 Clemson's Setback and Frustrations
28:17 "Recovery Takes Time and Care"

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans.

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Omaha Steaks
Save big on unforgettable gifts with Omaha Steaks. Visit https://OmahaSteaks.com for 50% off site-wide and an extra 20% off select favorites during their Cyber Sale.
And for an additional $35 off, use promo code COLLEGE at checkout.

Wayfair
Get last-minute hosting essentials, gifts for all your loved ones, and decor to celebrate the holidays for WAY less.
Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home.
Wayfair. Every style. Every home.

Rocket Money
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Go to https://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON today.

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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Clemson Tigers face an uphill battle as 27 scholarship players are set to miss the bowl game, leaving Morgan Thomas questioning whether Dabo Swinney’s “next man up” philosophy is enough in today’s college football landscape. With opt-outs, injuries, and transfer portal moves reshaping the roster, can Clemson withstand Penn State's punishing offensive line, or will their depleted defensive front be their downfall?

Morgan Thomas breaks down Dabo Swinney’s comments on roster attrition, the quarterback situation with Cade Klubnik, and the frustration over the current bowl season environment. The episode explores the Tigers’ reliance on backups, the potential need for a transfer portal quarterback in 2026, and Dabo’s unwavering approach to player development and portal strategy. This candid analysis of Clemson’s challenges highlights key contributors, transfer rumors, and the program’s evolving philosophy as they prepare for their toughest test yet.

00:00 "Clemson Faces Bowl Challenges"
04:26 Clemson's Struggles vs Penn State
09:30 Clemson's Future Players' Opportunities
12:24 "Clemson QB Decisions & Access"
13:50 "Dabo Prioritizing Bowl Game Victory"
16:48 Clemson's 2025 Season Finale Outlook
22:22 Dabo Reinforces Commitment Expectations
23:25 "Dabo's Loyalty and Rare Admission"
28:59 "Clemson Must Embrace Transfer Portal"
31:30 Clemson Basketball Post-Game Recap

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans.

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Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Omaha Steaks
Save big on unforgettable gifts with Omaha Steaks. Visit https://OmahaSteaks.com for 50% off site-wide and an extra 20% off select favorites during their Cyber Sale.
And for an additional $35 off, use promo code COLLEGE at checkout.

Wayfair
Get last-minute hosting essentials, gifts for all your loved ones, and decor to celebrate the holidays for WAY less.
Head to https://Wayfair.com right now to shop all things home.
Wayfair. Every style. Every home.

Rocket Money
Take control of your finances and cancel your unwanted subscriptions with Rocket Money.
Go to https://RocketMoney.com/LOCKEDON today.

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)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.