CLEMSON — Returning from Raleigh, N.C., after closing out two weeks on the road with back-to-back losses, the Clemson Tigers have a tough test in front of them on Saturday when No. 12 Notre Dame comes to town.

True Freshman Khalil Barnes met with the media Monday to give his take on the Notre Dame game and much more.

–With senior safety R.J. Mickens out at the N.C. State game, Barnes knew he had to step up. Although Micken was not on the field – they still showed up on the sideline and in practice to be of aid to their teammates. When asked about playing without these leaders, Barnes said, “It is still the same because they are still there with you during the preparation phase, and during practice where you still can get lots of pointers.”

–Barnes made three tackles (one for loss) against NC State. He also stepped into the role of free safety, a position he still has been building his experience in. When asked about his feelings surrounding the change and his ability as a free safety, Barnes said, “It feels good, but I have to keep watching tape and diving into the playbook more. It’s like a reset with free. I don’t have to even think about it on the field.”

–Drowning out all the noise and honing in on his game, Barnes responded on his approach towards social media chatter and interaction. “I have all my media muted. I really just text my friends on Snapchat and I text my parents.”

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