Clemson Football: Defensive Freshmen Report

Of all of the performances from Clemson's Spring Game this past Saturday, the best seemingly came from the newest Tigers. From blocked kicks to game-winning interceptions, the class of 2023 was on full display in Memorial Stadium.

Defensive Line

Peter Woods might've been the MVP of the game if fellow freshman Khalil Barnes hadn't taken an interception to the house to win it for the white team. Woods tallied 7 tackles, tied for a team lead, and was able to sack Cade Klubnik, but he wasn't the only freshman defensive lineman to put on a show. Both T.J. Parker and Stephiylan Green had 4 tackles and a sack in the game. Vic Burley got in on the action too with 2 tackles. This is a group that's going to see the field a lot this year. Barring any Transfer Portal moves, this unit should be one of the best in college football for the next three years.

Linebacker

It's going to be tough to see the field this year at linebacker with the duo of Barrett Carter and Jeremiah Trotter Jr. dominating most of the snaps, but Clemson has some quality depth with a pair of dynamic freshmen. Dee Crayton and Jamal Anderson. Crayton, out of Denmark High in Alpharetta, Georgia, got in on a couple of tackles, in the spring game. Anderson, the son of Atlanta Falcons legend Jamal Anderson, flashed a lot during the game, picking up 4 tackles and tipping a Cade Klubnik pass on 4th and goal that was intercepted by R.J. Mickens.

Secondary

Like the linebacking group, it's going to be tough to find much playing time this season in the secondary. Andrew Mukuba, R.J. Mickens, Toriano Pride Jr., and Nate Wiggins represent a formidable group, but there are some new faces that will push for snaps. Obviously, the story of the day was Khalil Barnes. The defensive back out of North Oconee in Georgia was all over the field, tackling ball carriers in the backfield, breaking up passes, and coming up with the game-winning pick-six. Kylen Webb, playing safety, got in on 3 tackles, while Shelton Lewis got a pass breakup at corner.

Watch our Spring Game Film Review Here: Clemson Spring Game Film Breakdown

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