Clemson makes it official, Tom Allen is the Tigers’ new defensive coordinator

Clemson makes it official with Allen.

Clemson has finalized the hire of Tom Allen as its new defensive coordinator, marking a major step in revamping the Tigers’ coaching staff. On Tuesday, the university’s Board of Trustees Compensation Committee approved a three-year deal for Allen, starting at $1.9 million in 2025 and increasing to $2 million and $2.1 million over the following two years.

Allen spent the 2024 season at Penn State, where he led the Nittany Lions’ defense to impressive national rankings, including seventh in total defense, eighth in scoring defense, and ninth in rushing defense. His unit also excelled in generating pressure, ranking second nationally in tackles for loss and fifth in sacks.

Before joining Penn State, Allen served as Indiana’s head coach for seven seasons, where he guided the Hoosiers to three bowl games and their best AP ranking in decades during the shortened 2020 season. His decades of coaching experience and ability to develop strong defensive units have made him a highly respected figure in college football.

Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney will formally introduce Allen on Wednesday, but fans are already buzzing about the hire.