Clemson University’s football program is undergoing significant changes following the 2024 season. Head coach Dabo Swinney has decided to part ways with defensive coordinator Wes Goodwin after three seasons. This move comes in response to a season where the Tigers’ defense underperformed, ranking ninth in the ACC and 69th nationally, allowing an average of 374.1 yards per game. Particularly concerning was their run defense, which permitted 160.7 rushing yards per game—their poorest performance since 1975.
In the search for a new defensive coordinator, several candidates have emerged. Initially, Tennessee’s Tim Banks was considered a leading contender. Banks, 53, has been with Tennessee since 2021 and has a history of improving defensive units. Under his leadership, the Volunteers’ defense ranked eighth nationally in scoring defense (16.1 points per game) and seventh in total defense (293.2 yards per game) in 2024.
Despite Clemson’s interest, Banks has chosen to remain at Tennessee, where he has one year left on his contract with a salary of $1.5 million. This decision has prompted Clemson to explore other options. Two prominent candidates are Illinois’ Aaron Henry and Georgia Tech’s Tyler Santucci.
Aaron Henry, 36, has been Illinois’ defensive coordinator since December 2022. In the 2024 season, he led a defense that improved significantly, allowing 22.1 points per game and contributing to a 10-3 record for the Fighting Illini. Henry’s coaching career includes stints at Arkansas, Rutgers, NC State, and Vanderbilt.
Tyler Santucci, also 36, completed his first season as Georgia Tech’s defensive coordinator in 2024. Under his guidance, the Yellow Jackets’ defense finished fourth in the ACC in total defense. Prior to Georgia Tech, Santucci served as co-defensive coordinator at Duke in 2023, where his unit led the ACC in scoring defense, allowing just 19.0 points per game. His resume also includes a tenure at Texas A&M, where he was co-defensive coordinator in 2022.
Another potential candidate is Mike Reed, Clemson’s assistant head coach and cornerbacks coach since 2013. Reed’s long-standing relationship with the program and his familiarity with its culture make him a viable internal option. However, reports suggest that Swinney is seeking a more experienced defensive coordinator, similar to his approach in hiring offensive line coach Matt Luke last year.
The decision to replace Goodwin underscores Swinney’s commitment to maintaining Clemson’s defensive prowess, which has been a hallmark of the program’s success in recent years. The Tigers’ defensive struggles in 2024, particularly against the run and in preventing explosive plays, highlighted the need for a change in leadership. By targeting experienced coordinators with proven track records, Swinney aims to revitalize the defense and return it to an elite level.
As the search continues, Clemson fans eagerly await the announcement of the new defensive coordinator. The selection will play a crucial role in shaping the Tigers’ defensive identity and overall performance in the upcoming season. With spring practices on the horizon, Swinney is expected to make a decision promptly to ensure a smooth transition and adequate preparation time for the new coordinator to implement his system.
In conclusion, while the departure of Wes Goodwin marks the end of a chapter for Clemson’s defense, it also presents an opportunity for renewal. By bringing in a seasoned defensive coordinator, Swinney aims to address the shortcomings of the past season and uphold the high standards that have come to define Clemson football.