With the addition of new defensive coordinator Tom Allen, the Clemson Tigers defense could take a step up in 2025, and more specifically, so could defensive end T.J. Parker.
Tom Allen’s Defensive Background
Allen’s coaching experience goes all the way back to his days at Temple Heights High School back in Florida in 1992. The former Indiana head coach and Penn State defensive coordinator has also had coaching stints at Drake, Ole Miss, and South Florida.
For almost 35 years at multiple levels, Allen has grown and molded himself into one of the better defensive coaches in the country. Last season, Allen led the Nittany Lions to the seventh best total defense in the FBS (294.8 YPG).
As Clemson assistant athletic director for football communications Ross Taylor illustrated in a social media post last month, Allen helped future NFL edge rusher Abdul Carter become arguably the best defender in the country. Carter recorded 12 sacks, 23.5 tackles for loss, and 68 total tackles.
How Tom Allen Can Help T.J. Parker
As noted from Taylor’s social media post, T.J. Parker had a similar season to that of the All-American Carter.
Parker recorded 11 sacks, 19.5 tackles for loss, and 57 total tackles in two fewer games for the Tigers in 2024. If Allen can have the same effect on Parker that he had on Carter, the rest of the ACC might want to look out.
Now remember, Clemson did have a middle-of-the-pack season from a statistical perspective on defense in 2024. They finished ninth in total defense in the ACC (374.1 YPG), even though they were able to win the ACC and make it to the College Football Playoff.
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If Clemson wants to advance past the first round of the playoffs, it will be up to Allen to help Parker and Co. to the next level.
Penn State had a great season as they made it to the College Football Playoff’s semifinals but fell short against Notre Dame. The Tigers have the chance to replicate that kind of success and possibly do more if the defense kicks it up a notch.
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