As of early 2025, reports suggest that the Clemson Tigers have decided to part ways with defensive coordinator Wes Goodwin. This marks a significant change for the program, as Goodwin was promoted to the role in 2022 after serving as a linebackers coach and a defensive analyst for several years under head coach Dabo Swinney.
Goodwin’s tenure as defensive coordinator, while highly anticipated, did not meet the expectations of many fans and analysts. Despite inheriting a defense filled with talent, the Tigers’ defensive unit experienced a notable decline in overall performance during his time in charge. Clemson, once renowned for its dominant defenses, struggled to consistently perform at the elite level that had been the hallmark of the program under previous coordinators like Brent Venables.
The most glaring issue during Goodwin’s tenure was Clemson’s defensive inconsistency. The Tigers allowed several high-scoring games, particularly against potent offenses in the ACC. While the team was still competitive in most games, their defensive performances often left fans and analysts questioning the direction of the program. Additionally, Goodwin’s relatively young coaching experience and unproven track record seemed to play a role in the decision to move on.
Clemson’s leadership, led by Swinney, has been known for being patient with coaching staff changes, but the pressure to maintain the program’s legacy and competitive edge in the ACC may have influenced this decision. Moving forward, Clemson will likely look for a seasoned defensive mind who can restore the defense to the level that helped the Tigers win national titles in recent years.
This decision is seen as part of Clemson’s broader efforts to remain at the top of college football, with a focus on strengthening both sides of the ball as the program aims to recapture its former glory.
Clemson Tigers Have Reportedly Moved On From Defensive Coordinator Wes Goodwin
The Clemson Tigers have entered the offseason looking to put the best possible team together for 2025 after a very successful year in 2024.
This past season, the Tigers had double-digit wins on their way to an ACC title which secured them a spot in the College Football Playoff.
Clemson unfortunately saw their campaign come to an end in the first round of the CFP, but the future is looking bright for the upcoming season for the Tigers.
However, while they had success, there was a glaring issue for the program; defense.
There has been a lot of talk about potential changes for the team on that side of the ball, and it seems like the unit will be led by a new defensive coordinator in 2025.
Will Vandervort of The Clemson Insider has reported that Dabo Swinney and the Tigers will indeed be moving on from defensive coordinator Wes Goodwin.
This decision shouldn’t come as too much of a surprise since their defense didn’t perform up to expectations in 2024.
Overall, the Tigers were ranked sixth in the ACC in points allowed per game and 53rd in the country.
When diving a bit deeper into the struggles of that unit, stopping the run was the main issue for the program.
As they head into 2025, expectations are going to be high.
This is a team that could have one of the best quarterbacks and offenses in the country next year, and they will need the defense to be better than it was in 2024 if they are going to be a true title contender.
