Dabo was only HC for 7 games in 2008.

Dabo was only HC for 7 games in 2008.
by SU3xSU2xU1 (2026-09-07 00:49:46)
Edited on 2026-09-07 00:53:25

In reply to: Dabo posted by SEE

So 2008-2011 he was 29-19 (0.604), with Terry Bowden being on the hook for the other games (3-3).

Dabo overall without Venables: 66-37 (0.641), one playoff appearance (2024) and a BCS bowl loss (playoffs didn't start until 2014).

Clemson with Venables but without Deshaun Watson or Trevor Lawrence starting: 50-12 (0.806), one Orange Bowl (BCS) win pre-playoffs, zero playoff appearances. This includes games with Watson or Lawrence on the team but they didn't start.

Clemson with Venables but no Watson or Lawrence on the team at all (2012, 2013, 2017, 2021): 44-9 (0.830), and the aforementioned Orange Bowl win (2013).

Clemson in games started by either Watson or Lawrence: 66-5 (0.930), 2 national titles and four title game appearances.

Certainly they have been better with BV than without, but I wouldn't say he's the sole reason for their success over the past 10-15 years.