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.
It’s official #Clemson has parted ways with DC Wes Goodwin pic.twitter.com/yltwv53jBv
— ClemsonSportsNews (@ClemSportNews) January 2, 2025
Clemson has officially parted ways with DC Wes Goodwin.
The announcement I expected Monday.
— Sidelines – Clemson (@SSN_Clemson) January 2, 2025
Yeah if this playoff game is any confirmation, the Wes Goodwin experiment was an unnecessary mistake
— Jordan Bowman (@JoBo0209) January 1, 2025
I have been informed..
🚨 Clemson has fired Defensive Coordinator Wes Goodwin! 🚨 pic.twitter.com/VBsd2O6mCa
— The Clemson House (@TheClemsonHouse) January 2, 2025
Source: Wes Goodwin will no longer be Clemson’s defensive coordinator. Tennessee DC Tim Banks frontrunner to be offered the job.
— Scott Hamilton (@ScottHamiltonPC) January 2, 2025
Wes Goodwin hate/slander is 100% misplaced blame for Dabo not doing proper roster maintenance.
Clemson had a top 15-20 defense the two years prior under Goodwin. He didn’t forget how to coach, he just doesn’t have quality depth https://t.co/sWliqjMo66
— Timothy Bailey (@RealTimBailey) January 2, 2025
WES GOODWIN GONE?
pic.twitter.com/EGGVxHp9bh— PePe (@CLEMSONPEPE) January 2, 2025