Clemson Set to Re-Hire Chad Morris as Offensive Coordinator
Clemson University is poised to bring back a familiar face to lead its offense. Sources confirm the program is nearing a deal with Chad Morris to serve as the Tigers’ next offensive coordinator. The multiyear agreement is expected to undergo final approval during a board of trustees review on Monday.
Morris previously held the playcalling duties at Clemson from 2011 to 2014. He’s widely credited with laying the foundation for the explosive offenses that propelled the Tigers to national championships in 2016 and 2018. Importantly, he played a key role in recruiting Deshaun Watson, a former star quarterback who became a Clemson legend.
Why the Change? A Look at Clemson’s Recent Offensive Struggles
Clemson’s offense has faced meaningful challenges in recent years, notably with quarterback play. the 2025 season marked a low point, with the Tigers finishing 11th in the ACC in scoring offense and 10th in Total QBR.This downturn culminated in a disappointing 7-6 record – their worst season as 2010 – and ultimately led to the dismissal of offensive coordinator Garrett Riley.
A particularly telling game was the 22-10 loss to Penn State in the Pinstripe bowl.This performance underscored the urgent need for offensive revitalization. You’ve likely noticed the struggles if you’re a Clemson fan, and the university is clearly responding.
A Coaching Journey: Morris’s Career As Clemson
Morris’s career path since his initial stint at Clemson has been varied. Here’s a breakdown:
* SMU (2015-2017): He transformed a struggling SMU program, taking them from a 1-11 record to a 7-5 season in 2017.
* Arkansas (2018-2019): His tenure at Arkansas was less successful, with a 4-18 record leading to his firing.
* Auburn (2020): Morris served as offensive coordinator at Auburn for one season.
* USF & Clemson (2021-2023): He held analyst roles, first at South Florida under former Clemson assistant Jeff Scott, and then returning to Clemson in 2023.
* Virginia (2025): Most recently, he served in an advisory role at Virginia, where his son, Chandler Morris, was the starting quarterback.
what Does This Hire Mean for Clemson’s Future?
Bringing Morris back represents a strategic move to recapture the offensive magic of the mid-2010s.He understands the Clemson culture and has a proven track record of developing high-powered offenses.
You can expect a renewed emphasis on quarterback development and a more dynamic offensive scheme. The hope is that Morris can quickly elevate the Tigers’ offense and return them to national prominence. this hire signals a clear commitment to restoring Clemson’s offensive identity.
This story was first reported by Tiger Illustrated.
