CLEMSON — Now in his fifth season as a Clemson Tiger, safety Jalyn Phillips has seen all the ups and downs as a college athlete. The standard in Tiger Town is far above many programs, and that adds an extra challenge. That’s not something only a few people can carry.

The Tigers are 2-2 and it’s a completely different vibe around this team. If there’s any hope of turning it into a successful season, every Clemson player has to step up. During his media availiability Monday, that’s something that Phillips emphasized.

“One thing I learned is that we’re going to need everybody. For the young guys, just know that when you number’s called, just be ready…it’s a long season, people get bumps and bruises throughout the year so just want all of our guys to be ready for that moment when their number’s called,” Phillips said.

That sentiment was spotlighted in overtime, when cornerback Jaedyn Lukus had to step in for the injured Nate Wiggins. He ended up being targeted, and Florida State wide receiver Keon Coleman made a leaping grab over him. It was good defense, but better offense. It’s just a microcosm of how quickly injuries impact the game.

Lukus is one of the players that had to step up. Mitchell Mayes took over at right guard for the injured Walker Parks. Tyler Brown and company mitigated the absence of Antion Williams at wide receiver. Injuries are an inevitability and partially luck, so preparing for them is necessary. Phillips believes in Lukus in that spot, and saw his evolution during camp.

“He has great confidence now. This camp was the best camp I’ve ever seen him have…he’s really coming along and is gaining that confidence. That’s one guy I’m very proud of this year,” Phillips said.

He also echoed the thought of “flush it” after a bad play and it’s something the Tigers have had to do more than they’d like in 2023. As the season progresses, Clemson has to be picture perfect and it goes from the starters to the scout team.