Swinney convinced Schieffelin: Clemson football offers national fame
Clemson football coach Dabo Swinney persuaded basketball star Ian Schieffelin to join the football team, offering a chance to become a "national story" instead of being forgotten playing basketball overseas. Swinney argued that playing football at Clemson would attract NFL scouts, providing greater exposure than professional basketball in less prominent leagues. He emphasized the opportunity for Schieffelin to be evaluated over several months. Swinney believes Schieffelin, a 6'8" forward, could excel as an offensive tackle or tight end. This move follows Schieffelin's completed basketball eligibility and a prior brief football stint in high school.