Secondary Trio 'Hungry' for Success in Sophomore Year

The Clemson Tigers have had a dominant defense for years — it is practically the team’s trademark. For the secondary, however, the focus has been less on its dominant power and more on the development and growth of the young guys.

Without the presence of star cornerback Nate Wiggins in the upcoming season, new leaders will need to step up for the no-fly zone.

There is no small amount of leaders and performers in this unit. Three men, in particular, were talked about in this conversation — safety Khalil Barnes and cornerbacks Shelton Lewis and Avieon Terrell.

All rising sophomores, these young players are playing with a spotlight of anticipation. Barnes ended last year leading the team in interceptions (three) and had six pass breakups with 41 total tackles, while Terrell and Lewis combined for 13 pass breakups, 25 tackles and three interceptions. These players are nothing short of promising for the future.

Defensive backs coach Mike Reed spoke to the media on Tuesday at Clemson Football’s annual Media Day at the Allen Reeves Football Complex and shared thoughts on who the Tigers have at the helm and what they are capable of, including that dynamic trio.

“Some of these kids, we’ve watched them grow. It’s one of those things that you see it in them, these are guys that are hungry,” Reed said.

“A lot of times, people equate success with just stars, but I equate success with guys that are willing to go out and work. These are young men that are going to put on their hard hat and they are going to work every day, and when you have that type of work ethic, you know you’re going to have some type of success.”

Success is written out in front of these three players, along with the rest of the secondary unit. Reed spoke about the search for unity on the starting roster, what that looked like near the end of 2023 for the now-sophomore trio and what it looks like for the new season ahead.

“We’re trying to search for some cohesiveness, some synergy. It’s like, ‘Hey, this guy deserves his opportunity, let’s give him a shot,'” Reed said.

“I got to spark a fire in that room, and so I gotta go with the young boys and see what they can do. Because, hey, if the older guys are not getting it done, I need to go find out what these young guys can do.”

The 2024 season is the perfect opportunity to find out what these talented young players can do.

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