LSU Coach Brian Kelly Rebukes Clemson's Dabo Swinney After 17-10 Victory

After LSU's 17-10 road victory over Clemson, LSU coach Brian Kelly sharply responded to Clemson coach Dabo Swinney's modest grading of the game, where Swinney likened the matchup to a "final exam on day one of class" and gave LSU a 65 and Clemson a 58, stating neither team was great. Kelly countered by emphasizing LSU's dominance in the second half, suggesting Swinney either graded generously for himself, harshly for LSU, or did not witness the full game. Statistical advantages for LSU included more first downs, greater yardage, superior time of possession, and a strong defensive effort that limited Clemson's rushing yards and third-down conversions. Kelly's remarks were seen as a confident assertion to boost LSU's national standing and recruiting efforts, especially as the Tigers rose to No. 3 in the AP Top 25 following the win. Both coaches praised each other's teams, with Swinney acknowledging LSU's physicality and smart playmakers, while Kelly recognized Clemson as a top-tier playoff contender. The exchange highlighted the competitive tension and media posturing following a pivotal early-season college football showdown.