Swinney optimistic star DE Lawson will play in title game

“So far, so good,” Swinney said, speaking on a joint teleconference with Alabama coach Nick Saban. “I think the prognosis is good at this point. I’m very optimistic he’ll be able to play.”

Lawson, the ACC Defensive Player of the Year, sustained a knee injury early on during Clemson’s 37-17 victory over No. 4 Oklahoma in the College Football Playoff semifinals and sat out a majority of the game.

Lawson has been a force this season, racking up an FBS-best 22.5 tackles for a loss while adding 9.5 sacks.