Clemson’s offensive line has been a topic of conversation for years, but under Matt Luke, the Tigers are finally seeing the kind of dominant play in the trenches that wins championships. The former Ole Miss head coach, who took time away from coaching to be with his family, joined Dabo Swinney’s staff in December 2023, and the impact has been immediate.
Luke arrived at Clemson with over 20 years of experience as an offensive line coach, co-offensive coordinator, and head coach. When he arrived, he helped the Tigers to a dominant 2023 TaxSlayer Gator Bowl win, where his offensive line paved the way for Phil Mafah’s record-breaking four-touchdown performance. His value was so clear that Swinney promoted him to Assistant Head Coach and Co-Offensive Coordinator in 2025.
“My family and I are incredibly excited about this opportunity,” Luke said when he was hired. “I have always had tremendous admiration for Dabo Swinney as a man, as a coach, and as a leader, and I am excited for the opportunity to help him win another national championship at Clemson.”
Swinney echoed the sentiment, calling Luke exactly what Clemson needed. “He brings an incredible résumé and a wealth of experience and has worked with a bunch of great coaches and players over his career. He is very familiar with our footprint in recruiting. I have no doubt he will be a great addition.”
Luke’s ability to develop talent and recruit elite linemen is already setting up Clemson for long-term success. The 2025 class features Easton Ware, Rowan Byrne, Gavin Blanchard, Tucker Kattus, and Brayden Jacobs—a strong group that lays the foundation for the future. But Luke isn’t stopping there. He’s been relentless on the recruiting trail, landing a commitment from Braden Wilmes in the 2026 class while targeting top prospects like Darius Gray, Maxwell Riley, Ekene Ogboko, Bear McWhorter, and several others.
January was a busy month for Luke, as he hit the road meeting recruits in person, reinforcing Clemson’s commitment to building a dominant offensive line. What makes his success even more impressive is that he chose Clemson because of Swinney’s emphasis on family—something that allowed him to step back from coaching for a time before returning to the profession he loves.
Luke’s presence is already paying dividends, and with his recruiting efforts and coaching expertise, Clemson’s offensive line is finally becoming a unit that can compete with the best in college football. The Tigers’ future in the trenches is bright, and Luke is at the center of it all.
