Clemson has made a big move, hiring Penn State defensive coordinator Tom Allen to take over the Tigers’ defense. Known for his fiery personality and proven track record, Allen’s arrival signals Clemson’s renewed focus on dominating defensively.

In his one season at Penn State, Allen led one of the nation’s top defenses. The Nittany Lions finished ranked No. 7 in the country, according to ESPN’s SP+ efficiency ratings, and held opponents to just 16.5 points per game (eighth nationally) and 294 yards per game (seventh).

Allen’s hiring ends the tenure of Wes Goodwin, whose defense struggled on the biggest stages. The breaking point came during Clemson’s College Football Playoff loss to Texas, where the Tigers gave up 292 rushing yards. Despite occasional bright spots, Goodwin’s defense regressed over his three-year tenure, failing to meet expectations in the last season.

Allen, in stark contrast to Goodwin, brings a high-energy style that’s hard to miss. He’s the type of coach who once injured himself chest-bumping a player after an interception. If comparisons to a wild animal feel apt, it’s because his intensity is unmistakable.

Family played a big role in Allen’s decision. Moving to Clemson brings him closer to his daughters, who live in the Carolinas. His son, Thomas, currently a defensive analyst at Penn State, could also join Clemson’s staff.

“My family is very important to me, and this move provides us the unique opportunity of living close to our daughters,” Allen said. “I can’t wait to get to work with this Clemson staff and team.”

Head coach Dabo Swinney praised Allen, “Tom checked every box I was looking for,” Swinney said. “He brings a ton of experience and was highly recommended by some of the best people in this business. We’ve got a great football coach — and a great leader of men — coming to Clemson.”

Allen inherits a defense stacked with talent. Peter Woods and T.J. Parker anchor the line, with Purdue transfer Will Heldt adding depth. At linebacker, Wade Woodaz and freshman Sammy Brown stand out, while Avieon Terrell and Ashton Hampton lead a secondary that ranked 33rd nationally in yards allowed last season.

“I’m thankful for the opportunity that Coach Swinney has given me to lead the defense,” Allen said. “I have admired him from afar for years and look forward to working with him and the defensive staff.”

Allen’s addition is about more than Xs and Os — it’s a statement that Clemson is doubling down on its defensive identity. With Allen’s proven expertise and the Tigers’ promising roster, Clemson looks poised to make noise in 2025.