The more things change, the more they stay the same.
That’s how Clemson’s staff is viewing the debut year of a dramatic shift in the postseason.
Four teams will no longer compete for a spot in a semifinal matchup; rather, there are 12 spots for postseason contenders.
The Tigers have been unsuccessful in reaching the College Football Playoff in the last three seasons, but an expanded playoff might be a helpful aid.
The new playoff format selects the four highest-ranked conference champions for the Top 4 seeds and a first-round bye, with seven spots remaining for the best available teams and the highest-ranked Group of Five conference champion is also set to receive an automatic bid.