Syracuse head coach Fran Brown has made headlines for his candid comments ahead of the College Football Playoff, openly admitting that he won’t be rooting for Clemson, the ACC representative, to take home the national championship. Instead, Brown has thrown his support behind his former team, the Georgia Bulldogs.
“Why would I root for Clemson?” Brown said during a recent media appearance. Despite Clemson’s success and their ACC ties, Brown’s loyalties remain with Georgia, where he served as the Bulldogs’ defensive backs coach before joining Syracuse.
Georgia, under the leadership of Kirby Smart, has once again secured a spot in the CFP, looking to claim yet another national title. Brown, who credits his time in Athens for shaping his coaching philosophy, has remained a staunch supporter of the Bulldogs even after leaving for Syracuse.
“I know what Georgia is about — the culture, the hard work, and the passion they bring to the field,” Brown said. “I’ll always back those guys because I’ve seen firsthand what makes them special.”
While some might expect Brown to show solidarity with Clemson as a fellow ACC program, his decision to root for Georgia underscores the personal connections and loyalty that often trump conference rivalries. Brown’s comments also highlight the emotional complexities of college football, where former affiliations often hold significant sway.
As the playoff games draw closer, Brown’s remarks are sure to stir conversation among fans and pundits alike. His choice to support Georgia over Clemson demonstrates the depth of his bond with his former team and his belief in their ability to secure yet another championship.