Swinney says he supports BLM, but not on uniforms
Clemson coach Dabo Swinney does not support messages of social justice or other issues on player uniforms.
Swinney said Tuesday his stance is solely because he’s a college football traditionalist who values the historic look of jerseys, not because he disagrees with efforts to combat social injustice.
“It’s not anything to do with the messages or whatever,” he said. “It’s just, I’ve always not messed with uniforms. It’s always been my deal.
But that’s all changed this year.”
Swinney and the Tigers have spoken out against social injustice, marching in June following the murder of George Floyd by a Minneapolis police officer.
The Tigers have worn helmet stickers this season with various messages, including “Black Lives Matter,” “Love,” “Put a Stop to
Racism” and “Equality.” Clemson’s home field included the words “Equality” and “Unity” at the team’s opener against The Citadel two weeks ago, and players, coaches and staff locked arms in a line on the sideline after the first quarter in support of social justice.
Some on social media came out against Clemson’s efforts, criticizing the team’s actions. Swinney defended the team this month, saying not everyone will agree. The messages on players’ helmets and on the field will continue.
The coach added that he is not a fan of political groups, but common sense messages. When asked if he considered Black Lives Matter a political organization, he referred back to previous comments he’d made.
“Absolutely, Black lives matter,” he said. “That’s common sense.”
■ South Carolina: Starting linebacker Sherrod Greene will miss at least the next four to six weeks with a fractured hip but will not need surgery. Greene will get rechecked in about a month.
■ Buffalo: Nineteen players have tested positive for the coronavirus. Team activities have been postponed until further notice.
■ Postponement: South Alabama called off its Saturday game with Sun Belt rival Troy because of COVID-19. South Alabama, Troy and the league will try to find a makeup date.