Category: Clemson Tigers

Reactions to Clemson football moving on from defensive coordinator Wes Goodwin

Here’s how social media reacted to Clemson’s big news.

Dabo Swinney has reportedly decided to part ways with defensive coordinator Wes Goodwin after a disappointing 2024 season for Clemson’s defense. Multiple reports confirm Goodwin will not return in 2025, marking a significant shakeup for the Tigers.

Clemson’s defense ranked 69th nationally in total yards allowed this season, with notable struggles against the run. The unit gave up 160.7 rushing yards per game and 4.7 yards per carry—its worst performance in decades. Big plays were another issue, as the Tigers allowed 73 plays of 20+ yards, tied for 126th nationally.

While Goodwin had success in 2023, including leading the ACC in total defense, the defensive regression in 2024 prompted Swinney to make the change.

Here’s a look at how fans and analysts reacted on social media to the news of Clemson moving on from Goodwin.

 

Clemson moves on from Wes Goodwin as defensive coordinator

Clemson is looking for a new defensive coordinator.

Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney has reportedly decided to part ways with defensive coordinator Wes Goodwin.

Multiple reports indicate that Goodwin has been informed he will not return to lead the Tigers’ defense in 2025. The decision follows a challenging 2024 season for Clemson’s defense, which saw significant statistical declines.

Goodwin, who succeeded Brent Venables as defensive coordinator after the 2021 season, oversaw a unit that ranked ninth in the ACC and 69th nationally in total defense this year, allowing 374.1 yards per game. The Tigers struggled particularly against the run, giving up 160.7 rushing yards per game and 4.7 yards per carry—both marking the worst performances in decades. Big plays were also a problem, as Clemson allowed 73 plays of 20 or more yards, tied for 126th nationally.

Goodwin’s tenure included notable highs, such as Clemson leading the ACC in total defense in 2023, but consistent issues in 2024 forced Swinney’s hand.

Longtime Clemson defensive lineman enters the transfer portal

Williams is looking for a new home in the transfer portal.

Clemson has lost its fifth scholarship player to the transfer portal. Graduate defensive lineman Tre Williams entered the portal on Wednesday, taking advantage of the graduate eligibility window, which remains open despite the general portal deadline closing last Saturday.

In 2024, Williams contributed 16 tackles, three tackles for loss, two sacks, two fumble recoveries, and two pass deflections. Over his Clemson career, he tallied 42 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, four sacks, three fumble recoveries, and two pass breakups.

Williams, who has one season of eligibility left, now seeks a new opportunity after being part of Clemson’s defensive rotation. His decision adds to the Tigers’ roster shakeup, with multiple departures already marking this portal cycle.

Two Clemson stars earn ESPN freshman All-American team honors

Two Tigers earn freshman All-American honors.

Two Clemson freshmen, Bryant Wesco and Sammy Brown, have been recognized on ESPN’s Freshman All-American team for their exceptional debut seasons.

Wide receiver Wesco made an immediate splash, earning praise for his explosive playmaking ability. “Wesco was a four-star recruit in the Class of 2024 who ranked No. 28 in the ESPN 300,” said Tom Luginbill. “He became a downfield threat for Cade Klubnik, leading all Tigers receivers by averaging 17.3 yards per catch.” Wesco’s standout moment came in the ACC Championship, where he delivered eight catches for 143 yards and two touchdowns, helping Clemson to the title.

On defense, Sammy Brown quickly became a cornerstone of the Tigers’ linebacker corps. “The former five-star’s mix of productivity, twitch, and physicality landed him as the No. 13 overall player in the 2024 ESPN 300,” Luginbill added. Brown ended his freshman campaign with 80 tackles and five sacks, including a dominant 14-tackle performance in the ACC Championship and 10 more in the College Football Playoff.

Both players have laid a strong foundation for what promises to be impactful careers at Clemson.

Clemson star edge announces return for another season

Parker returns to Clemson.

Clemson defensive end TJ Parker has announced he’ll be back for his junior season, giving the Tigers another year with one of the nation’s top defensive players.

After an impressive freshman campaign, Parker elevated his game in 2024, earning second-team All-ACC honors with a career-high 11 sacks. His ability to dominate games made him one of the most disruptive forces in the conference.

Parker delivered big moments throughout the season, including a tone-setting strip sack on the opening drive of the ACC Championship that led to a Clemson touchdown. He finished the year with 19.5 tackles for loss, further cementing his role as a game-changer for the Tigers’ defense.

In an era where stars often look to the NFL or transfer portal, Parker’s commitment is a huge boost for Clemson. With his trajectory pointing upward, Parker is poised to be an even bigger problem for opposing offenses in 2025, anchoring a defense that thrives when he’s on the field.

Clemson star defensive lineman makes a decision on his future

Huge news for Clemson fans.

Clemson star defensive lineman Peter Woods has announced that he will return for his junior season, giving the Tigers a significant boost as they retain one of the best defensive players in the country.

Woods shared the news on Instagram and Twitter on Saturday, confirming he’ll remain a cornerstone of Clemson’s defensive front in 2024. Known for his versatility, Woods has been a dominant presence at both defensive end and defensive tackle during his time with the Tigers.

This season, Woods appeared in 12 games, recording 29 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss, three sacks, and two forced fumbles. Over the course of his first two seasons, he has totaled 55 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, and three sacks in 24 games.

Woods’ return ensures Clemson’s defense will continue to feature one of the most impactful and dynamic players in college football. His decision reinforces the strength of a unit that will look to recover heading into 2024.

 

Clemson offensive lineman declares for the 2025 NFL Draft

Clemson is losing a veteran on the offensive line.

Clemson senior offensive lineman Marcus Tate has officially declared for the 2025 NFL Draft. On Friday evening, Tate shared a heartfelt message on social media, reflecting on his time with the Tigers and expressing gratitude for the journey.

“First, I would like to thank God for blessing me with the opportunities to chase my dreams,” Tate wrote. “To my family, your love and sacrifices have carried me through every challenge, and I’m forever grateful for your support.”

Tate also acknowledged the Clemson coaching staff and his teammates, thanking them for helping him grow as a player and person. He appreciated the Clemson fan base, saying their support created unforgettable memories during his time with the program.

“With that being said, I’m excited to announce that I am declaring for the 2025 NFL Draft,” Tate concluded. “Forever ALL IN.”

A multi-year starter for the Tigers, Tate has been a key presence on Clemson’s offensive line over the past four years, leaving a lasting impact both on and off the field.

Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney on facing legend Bill Belichick in the ACC

Swinney on facing a legend.

North Carolina’s hiring of Bill Belichick has shaken up the college football landscape, especially within the ACC. Known for his unparalleled success in the NFL, including six Super Bowl titles as a head coach and two as an assistant, Belichick’s move to the collegiate level is a monumental shift.

Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney recently shared his thoughts on the impact Belichick could have in the conference. “It’s incredible,” Swinney said. “I think it’s a great compliment to our league for sure. It’s hard to get better than coach Belichick. He’s an unbelievable, proven coach and winner. I think it’s really cool.”

Next season, Clemson is scheduled to travel to Chapel Hill to face the Tar Heels. Swinney is eager to compete against one of football’s most iconic coaches. “That wasn’t on my radar coming into the season,” Swinney said. “The guy that’s got more Super Bowl wins than anybody is now in our league. Great opportunity for those kids in that program.”

Clemson has dominated the series with North Carolina in recent years, winning seven straight matchups. The Tar Heels’ last victory over the Tigers came in 2010, but with Belichick now at the helm, Swinney has no doubt he’ll leave his mark. “I don’t have any doubt that he’d do an awesome job,” Swinney added.

Clemson star linebacker declares for the 2025 NFL Draft

Clemson is losing a key member of their defense.

Barrett Carter has officially announced his decision to take the next step in his football journey. On Wednesday, the standout linebacker shared a heartfelt message with the Clemson community, reflecting on his time with the Tigers and his plans to pursue a career in the NFL.

“For the past four years, I’ve been incredibly blessed to wear orange and purple,” Carter wrote. “The Clemson family will always hold a special place in my heart, and I’m forever grateful for everything this university has given me.”

Carter expressed his gratitude to head coach Dabo Swinney, the coaching staff, and his teammates for believing in him and pushing him to grow as a player and leader. He also thanked God for the opportunity to play college football and shared his excitement about tackling the next challenge: achieving his dream of playing in the NFL.

“This journey won’t be easy,” Carter added, “but I’m ready to give it everything I’ve got. Thank you, Clemson. This is just the beginning.”

Carter capped off an impressive career with the Tigers, earning All-American and All-ACC honors twice. Over four seasons, he totaled 233 tackles, 31.5 tackles for loss, 12.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, and 12 passes defended. His final game came last weekend in Austin, where Clemson fell to Texas in the first round of the College Football Playoff.

Clemson defensive back declares for the 2025 NFL Draft

Mickens time at Clemson is done.

R.J. Mickens has officially bid farewell to Clemson after playing his final game as a Tiger last weekend in Austin. On Wednesday, the fifth-year senior announced his decision to declare for the 2025 NFL Draft through a heartfelt letter to the Clemson community.

Mickens expressed his gratitude, first thanking God for guiding him through his journey. He also shared appreciation for his family, who he said made Clemson feel like home, and for his coaches and teammates, who helped shape his experience on and off the field. Being voted a team captain by his peers, Mickens said, was a dream come true.

He also gave a special shoutout to Clemson fans, calling Death Valley “the most special place in college football” and thanking them for their passion and energy.

Mickens wraps up his Clemson career with an impressive record, appearing in 60 games with 30 starts. He recorded 196 tackles, 13.5 tackles for loss, seven interceptions, and 19 passes defended during his time with the Tigers.