SWINNEY OFFICIALLY NAMED HEAD COACH

Clemson University made the announcement at a news conference on Monday afternoon: Dabo Swinney is no longer the interim head football coach of the Clemson Tigers. He is now the "official" head coach. While the specifics of the compensation package have yet to be revealed, Clemson athletic director Terry Don Phillips did state that the contract length will be five years. Swinney does not plan to discuss any changes he may make to the coaching staff until after the Tigers' bowl game.

Coach Swinney has done a fantastic job after accepting the interim head coach position, especially considering the circumstances. He guided the team to a 4-2 record, winning on the road against ACC Atlantic Division winner Boston College as well as defeating Virginia in Charlottesville. The Tigers also routed Duke by 24 and closed out the regular season with a three game win streak by whipping in-state rival South Carolina at Death Valley by 17. Under Swinney's watch, the offense made tremendous strides and the ferocity and attitude of the defense was much improved.

As impressive as the play and the wins have been, Dabo's leadership qualities stand out as well. Many folks were inspired by the speech he gave at the press conference announcing his new position as interim head coach and wanted to go "all in". A few said it was gimmicky, just like Tiger Walk and "One Clemson" and having players lock arms side by side before every game. Well, leaders lead and they move forward with a purpose and a vision. People wanted to follow because they believed in the vision, because they were inspired. Dabo managed in just a few weeks to inject unity into the team, the university and the fans. His enthusiasm both on the field and off has been contagious. Yet, you get the sense that the guy is both genuine and humble. When you consider that he has a six year history with the program, is widely considered one of the top recruiters in the country and just proved himself capable of coaching his team to wins against guys like Al Groh and Steve Spurrier, one can understand why he got the job. Congratulations.