CLEMSON — With Tom Allen running the Clemson defense, the defensive backs are pining for the opportunity to get on the field and show what they can do.

Allen’s 4-2-5 scheme has always been defensive back-friendly, and with him leading the charge, veteran corner Avieon Terrell believes the Tigers’ secondary has a chance at having a special season.

“We have a chance to be the best secondary in the nation, for sure,” he said. “Everybody is just competing out there, and it looks good.”

Heading into his third season, Terrell is the most experienced corner on the roster, and for that reason, he knew he needed to take on a bigger role in the leadership department. Having more of a low-key personality by nature, it took him some time to get accustomed to it, but now he is thriving.

“I had to get out of my shell, just being quiet and leading by example,” Terrell said. “I am still leading by example, but I am more vocal now. I have a voice that can be heard now, so I am letting it be known.”

While the run defense was a point of contention last season, the pass defense also left a lot to be desired. The Tigers allowed 213.5 passing yards per game, ranking outside of the Top 50 nationally.

Terrell finished with 64 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, 13 pass breakups, two interceptions, three forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and a sack, earning second-team All-ACC honors.

However, that was last year, and this Clemson team is focused solely on what’s ahead. With the renewed sense of energy that came with the hiring of Allen, there’s a noticeable change on the practice fields, and Terrell fully believes that it will lead to a lot of success.

“Energy. Just every day going out there with a go-get ’em mindset,” Terrell said. “Everybody on the field is having good energy. We are all talking, and I love it out there. Great intensity.”

“The way we are flying around, just competing out there, on both sides, it feels good. He’s brought a lot of energy to the program.”

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