ESPN Analyst Picks Clemson to Win It All in 12-Team College Football Playoff
As the 2024 College Football Playoff inches closer, ESPN analyst and former coach, David Pollack, has made a bold prediction—Clemson will emerge as the national champion in the first-ever 12-team playoff format.
Pollack, who has been a prominent voice in college football analysis, pointed to Clemson’s combination of elite recruiting, experienced leadership, and defensive prowess as the key reasons behind his confident pick. Despite facing stiff competition from powerhouse programs like Georgia, Michigan, and Alabama, Pollack believes that Clemson, under head coach Dabo Swinney, has the tools necessary to navigate the expanded playoff field and secure a national title.
“People are still underestimating how good Clemson is,” Pollack said during ESPN’s College Football Playoff preview show. “This team has all the pieces—veteran leadership at quarterback, a stout defense, and a program culture built for big moments. In this 12-team format, the extra opportunities will give them the chance to showcase just how deep and talented they are.”
Clemson’s defense has been one of the nation’s best, spearheaded by a dominant front seven and a secondary capable of locking down the top receiving threats in the country. On offense, the Tigers’ young quarterback, Cade Klubnik, has steadily developed into one of the most promising players in college football, poised to take the reins of the offense in critical playoff games.
Pollack’s endorsement is significant, as it suggests a resurgence for Clemson, who experienced a dip in 2023 but have since returned to title contention. With the expanded playoff field adding new dynamics, Pollack’s prediction signals the growing belief that Clemson has what it takes to reclaim its spot atop college football.
