Dabo Swinney had positive things to say about Garrett Riley’s performance as Clemson’s offensive coordinator on Monday night in Durham.

Although the Tigers only scored 7 points, Clemson’s offense was able to move the ball efficiently into the red zone. However, the Tigers went just 1-for-4 with 2 lost fumbles and a blocked field goal once they got inside the 20-yard line.

“He did a great job,” Swinney said. “I mean, he was frustrated like me. He’d probably tell you the same thing – ‘never been a part of a game like that.’ It was incredibly frustrating. But I liked his poise. He just kept going and he stayed positive and he kept encouraging the guys.”

Swinney said Riley’s offense gave Clemson a chance to win, but mistakes by players in the red zone ultimately led to the poor scoring output.

“He gave us an opportunity to win the game,” Swinney said when asked about Riley. “He gave us an opportunity to punch it in multiple times and we just didn’t get it done. A really, really strange and disappointing game but I thought he did a nice job.”

This was Riley’s first game with the Tigers. He replaced Brandon Streeter, who spent 1 year as Clemson’s offensive coordinator. Riley helped lead TCU to the National Championship Game last season.

Clemson’s offense will try to get back on track in Week 2 against Charleston Southern.