ESPN recently broke down the biggest X factors for every Top 25 college football team this fall.
Run defense was highlighted as Clemson’s biggest X factor, or “the one thing that could make or break the season” for the Tigers in 2025.
“Though the Tigers have had standout players across their front seven over the past few years, that group has fallen short in one particular area — rush defense — and it became glaring last season,” ESPN’s Andrea Adelson wrote. “The truth is, its decline began when Wes Goodwin took over as defensive coordinator.