CHARLOTTE – The rushing defense for the Clemson Tigers has not been their strong suit, as of late.
In 2024, the Tigers were ranked 84th nationally in rush defense, allowing 160.6 rushing yards per game and 4.7 yards per carry on the ground, their worst in nearly 50 years. The 1975 Tigers gave up 5.3 yards per carry.
However, so much has changed since the end of the last year, with the addition of defensive end Will Heldt from Purdue, and former Penn State defensive coordinator Tom Allen. In the pursuit of improving on the failures of the defense last year, the Tigers are going all out, and the defensive leaders are ready to lead the charge.