FERNANDINA BEACH, Fla. — The Clemson Tigers are down in Jacksonville, Fla. preparing for their TaxSlayer Gator Bowl matchup with Kentucky, and got some good news right before the trip with safety R.J. Mickens returning for another season.

Freshman Khalil Barnes built a strong connection with the senior defender early on in his career, Back when it was this time last year, Barnes was on the scout team and apparently Mickens predicted his early rise to safeties coach Mickey Conn.

“That’s for sure one of my brothers. We were just talking about how a year ago, like my first practice being on scout team going against him, (RJ) was like ‘Coach Conn, he’s going to be a phenom.’ …but he said he called it,” Barnes said.

Over the 2023 season, the two were crucial to Clemson’s top-10 defense. Barnes was a ball hawk with three interceptions and two forced fumbles, meanwhile Mickens was part of a secure backend of the Tigers secondary.

During this ascent, Barnes built a strong connection with Mickens. As key returning members of the secondary, that relationship is crucial for the Tigers’ success in 2024.

“Now he’s my brother. I’m glad he’s coming back for another year. Want to try and get him a chip next year but always fun, I enjoy playing with him,” Barnes said.

The goals are lofty for Barnes next season, and winning a championship with Mickens is at the top of the list. The preparations are just beginning for then, but the focus for now is on the matchup with the Wildcats Friday.