Category: Burns Bateman

Clemson Tigers Struggling

By: Burns Bateman

The Clemson Tigers are facing a rough stretch this season, and several factors make this losing run particularly striking. After years of dominance, the Tigers’ offense has noticeably declined: they’ve shifted from elite quarterback play and strong offensive line protection to a unit marked by inconsistency, particularly in the passing game and receiver development. Meanwhile, the defense once a consistent strength has suffered lapses in execution, discipline and energy, with multiple observers noting a startling loss of hunger and edge. Turnovers have emerged as another worrisome trend; the Tigers are among the worst in their conference in lost fumbles and turnover margin, which has translated into opponents gaining hundreds of points off mistakes.  Add in coaching and schematic issues analysts describe the offense as at times obsolete the line as overmatched, and the system as improperly aligned with the players at hand. Perhaps most damaging is the mismatch between expectations and reality: this program entered the season as a national title contender, predators of top talent and storied success, yet they now find themselves staring at their worst start in decades, forced to “reset goals” rather than chase championships.  Ultimately, Clemson’s current losing season isn’t the result of one isolated problem it’s the cumulative effect of fading culture, systemic breakdowns on both offense and defense, and uncharacteristic mistakes that have turned once-routine wins into questionable performances. The talent remains, but the cohesion, urgency and execution do not—and until those intangible elements are restored, the Tigers are going to struggle to reclaim their elite status.

Charlie Kirk

By: Burns Bateman

Charlie Kirk, the 31-year-old founder of the conservative youth organization Turning Point USA, was tragically shot and killed on September 10, 2025, during a campus event at Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah. The event, part of his “American Comeback Tour,” was held under a tent with signs that read “Prove Me Wrong,” designed to spark political debate among students. According to eyewitnesses, the shooting happened suddenly, with Kirk collapsing as panic spread through the crowd. Emergency personnel responded quickly, but he later died from his injuries. A person of interest was initially taken into custody but was later released after investigators found no connection. Authorities now believe the shooter may have fired from a nearby building, and the case remains under active investigation. Kirk’s death has sparked an outpouring of grief from both supporters and critics, with statements coming from across the political spectrum, including a tribute from former President Donald Trump. The incident has reignited national conversations about political violence, public safety, and the risks faced by controversial figures engaging in live events.

Prior to the shooting, Kirk’s presence on campus had already stirred tension. Students organized protests and circulated petitions objecting to his views, but the university defended his right to speak, citing the importance of free expression in academic settings. Now, the focus has shifted to how such a tragedy could have occurred and what it says about the current state of political discourse in the country. Many are calling for a reevaluation of security protocols at campus events and urging leaders to take a stronger stance against all forms of political violence. The motive behind the shooting is still unknown, but its impact is undeniable. Charlie Kirk’s death is not only a personal loss for those close to him but also a troubling sign of deepening division in American society. As the investigation continues, the country is left to reflect on the consequences of rising polarization and the urgent need to protect both free speech and public safety.

NCAA Top 5 Week 1

By: Burns Bateman

To start off with, I will be ranking my top five for the 2025 NCAA college football season. Starting at number one, I have Texas. All eyes for Texas are on Arch Manning. I feel like he will have a breakout season with having a top receiver core in the country. Also having the star running backs like CJ Baxter and Quintrevion Wisner. On the defensive side, they have the top returning defensive unit in the nation. Their defense allowed the third fewest points and yards per game in division one. Coming in second is the Ohio State. With first year quarterback Julian Sayin leading the team, they will have some struggles but he will work it out to lead his team to a top spot in the season. With top receivers like Jerimiah Smith and Quincy Porter, it is going to be hard for other teams to keep up with the Buckeye offense. Number three is the Clemson Tigers. Top defense in the country with players like Sammy Brown, Ashton Hampton, Peter Woods, and TJ Parker. With a defense as strong as Clemson’s, opposing quarterbacks are going to scrambling for their life. They tiger offense is also top tier. Cade Klubnik is going to have a heisman run this year. With Adam Randall running the ball there will be some major rushing yards put up on the board this year. Coming in at number four is Georgia. Kirby Smart always has a strong team and you can never go wrong with putting Georgia in the top five. Gunner Stockton will be a demon on the field this year and with the strong defense backing them up.

Another championship run incoming for the Georgia football team. Lastly, at number five is Notre Dame. Jeremiyah Love is going to be the reason this team stays in the top five all year. The Irish always have a standout defense. That will be the top five for the first week of college football.