CFB Playoff: Practice Report No. 4

Clemson put the final touches on its Goodyear Cotton Bowl Classic preparation on a busy day for the Tigers.

Following the team’s official media day at AT&T Stadium, players and coaches visited Texas Scottish Rite Hospital before heading back to Arlington for their final full practice of the week.

Head coach Dabo Swinney said he was pleased with the high energy in their Team Thursday workout as his Tigers fine-tuned their game plan one last time prior to their semifinal matchup against third-seeded Notre Dame (12-0).

“They get excited about Team Thursday because they know the game is getting close,” said Swinney. “It’s a tempo practice really polishing and dotting i’s and crossing t’s. It was really good on both sides. We’re not ready to play tonight but we’re headed in that direction.”

Taking in today’s practice with a watchful eye from the sidelines was legendary coach Gene Stallings. Swinney’s coach at Alabama, Stallings was the head coach at Texas A&M (1965-71) and Alabama (1990-96) and led the Crimson Tide to the 1992 national championship. Stallings’ grandson, J.C. Chalk, is a sophomore tight end for Swinney’s Tigers.

“It’s special anytime I get a chance to see Coach. To be here at the Cowboys’ stadium where he coached 14 years for Dallas. It’s kind of neat to be in this arena with him and his history,” said Swinney.” Anytime I get a chance to see him, I cherish those moments.”

The Tigers will enjoy a quiet evening tonight and a restful Friday before taking the field Saturday in the program’s 43rd bowl game.