The Rivalry Between Dabo Swinney and Dave Doeren:
The rivalry between Clemson’s Dabo Swinney and NC State’s Dave Doeren has been one of the most intriguing storylines in ACC football over the past decade. With both coaches leading their teams to significant successes, their head-to-head matchups have often been pivotal in the ACC standings.
Head-to-Head Record
Since Dave Doeren took over as NC State’s head coach in 2013, he has faced Dabo Swinney’s Clemson Tigers ten times. Swinney holds a commanding 8-2 record against Doeren. This record underscores Clemson’s dominance in the ACC, but it also highlights the competitive nature of their encounters.
Memorable Moments and Controversies
One of the most memorable and controversial moments in their rivalry came in 2017, during what has been dubbed “Laptop Gate.” After Clemson’s 38-31 victory over NC State, Doeren accused Clemson of using a laptop on the sidelines, which is against NCAA rules . The accusation led to an investigation by the ACC, which found no wrongdoing on Clemson’s part. Swinney later trolled Doeren by having his coaches use a cartoon picture of a laptop on their play cards during their 2018 matchup, which Clemson won 41-7.
Last-Second Wins and Close Calls
The rivalry has also seen its share of nail-biting finishes. In 2016, Clemson narrowly escaped with a 24-17 overtime victory after NC State missed a potential game-winning field goal in regulation. These close games have added to the intensity and drama of the rivalry, making each encounter highly anticipated by fans and players alike.
Quotes from the Coaches
Both coaches have expressed respect for each other, despite the heated moments. Doeren has acknowledged Clemson’s success, stating, “We know that we can beat them. We’ve been close. Close doesn’t get it done”. Swinney, on the other hand, has often praised NC State’s competitiveness, saying, “They’re a tough team, and we always have to be at our best when we play them”.
The Significance of the 2024 Matchup
The upcoming game between Clemson and NC State is crucial for both teams. With Clemson looking to reclaim its dominance in the ACC after a challenging 2023 season, and NC State aiming to solidify its position as a top contender, this game could have significant implications for the ACC standings moving forward.
Both teams have new dynamics, with Clemson integrating new coaching staff and NC State dealing with a quarterback change due to Grayson McCall’s injury.
The rivalry between Dabo Swinney and Dave Doeren has been marked by intense competition, memorable moments, and a fair share of controversy. As they prepare to face off once again, the stakes are higher than ever. This game will not only impact the ACC standings but also add another chapter to the storied rivalry between these two accomplished coaches…
