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T.J. Parker didn’t take long to realize Clemson landed something special in new defensive coordinator Tom Allen.The junior defensive end has seen plenty of coaches come and go, but says Allen stands out — not just for his football mind, but for the energy and edge he’s brought to the Tigers’ defense.
“He’s brought a lot of juice,” Parker said. “I really love that. He brings a lot of confidence to the team. Instills it in us every day. That we can do whatever it takes. Makes the defense simple for us. Let’s us play fast and play to our strengths.”
Allen, who was hired in January after seven seasons as Indiana’s head coach, brings a long track record of building aggressive, disciplined defenses. That mindset has already started to take hold at Clemson, with Parker noting the change has been refreshing — and personal.
“He’s a guy that you can go into his office, sit and chill with every day,” Parker said. “My connection with him, my relationship with him is strong.”
Parker, a second-team All-ACC selection in 2024, led Clemson with 11 sacks and 19.5 tackles for loss last season, while also forcing a school-record six fumbles. He’s quick to credit his own drive and development — but sees Allen as the perfect complement to take his game further.
“I am excited just to have him here with us,” Parker said. “His defensive style of play, the passion that he has towards the game. Anybody can grab it. I am glad to have him. My abilities and his coaching abilities together, it’s going to be one hell of a season.”
With one of the ACC’s top defensive linemen bought in, and a proven coach now running the show, Clemson’s defense might be getting back to what it once was — and maybe more.
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Source link : https://clemsonwire.usatoday.com/story/sports/college/clemson/football/2025/04/09/clemson-football-tj-parker-tom-allen-defense/83012705007/
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Publish date : 2025-04-09 18:49:00
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