Morris served as Clemson's play caller from 2011 through 2014 before taking the head-coaching job at SMU. He was credited with building the framework of a high powered offense that would lead the Tigers to national titles in 2016 and 2018, and was instrumental in recruiting former star QB Deshaun Watson to Clemson. Clemson's offense has struggled without elite QB play in recent years, including a nadir in 2025 in which the Tigers finished 11th in the ACC in scoring offense
Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik remains questionable for the Tigers against SMU, with his 34-game starting streak in peril. Klubnik status isn't expected to be known until game-time, per ESPN sources, as there's a general feeling of pessimism over his availability after injuring his ankle against Boston College last week. Klubnik has endured an up-and-down season for Clemson, but the injury comes in the wake of strong play in decisive victories over both North Carolina and Boston College.