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ESPN Hands Out Midterm Grade to Clemson DC

ESPN handed out grades to various first-year coordinators, assessing how they’re performing as we near the midway point of the 2025 college football campaign.

So, how does Tom Allen grade out through four games in his first season as Clemson’s defensive coordinator?

ESPN’s Adam Rittenberg gave Allen a “C-” grade.

Here’s how Rittenberg evaluates Allen:

“Despite winning another ACC title last season, Clemson’s defense had become ordinary, finishing 42nd nationally in points allowed and 85th against the run. A new voice was needed and Allen, who helped Penn State to the CFP semifinal in his only season as coordinator, made a lot of sense.