CLEMSON — DeMonte Capehart has learned that in college football, every day is about proving yourself.

The sixth-year defensive tackle from Hartsville, S.C., has been a part of Clemson’s program since 2020. Over 45 career games, he has recorded 59 tackles, including 10.5 for loss, two sacks, three pass breakups, and a forced fumble.

Capehart played three years at Hartsville High before transferring to IMG Academy in Florida for the 2019 season. He signed with Clemson as one of the nation’s top defensive prospects and has grown into a veteran presence for the Tigers’ interior line, while fighting through injuries for the majority of his career.

By the end of 2023, Capehart emerged as one of Clemson’s most disruptive defensive linemen. His focus now is on continuing to elevate his own play.

Clemson opened the season against LSU and Troy, and while Capehart posted five tackles and a sack across the two games, he said he wished the defensive line had played better in controlling the run and pressuring the quarterback.

He knows that his team has room to improve and become better.

“We have the guys,” Capehart said. “We just have to be more dominant.”

Capehart is expecting Georgia Tech to bring a challenge this Saturday, as the 12th-ranked Tigers open ACC play at Bobby Dodd Stadium in Atlanta. But, are they ready for the Yellow Jackets.

“They’re tough and gritty,” he said. “The quarterback is a warrior. They play with swagger and confidence.”

As one of the most experienced players on the roster, Capehart has adopted a leadership role in a competitive position group. He takes on the task of making sure his teammates are ready when the game kicks off at noon (ESPN) on Saturday.

“You have to show up every day with the mindset to work,” he said. “If you don’t, that’ll be the day your spot gets taken. You never know.”

That mindset comes from veterans before him who taught him how to prepare and handle distractions.

“You just have to stay focused on the task at hand,” Capehart said. “You can’t get distracted by what’s going on around. Just play football, that’s what we’re here to do.”

Capehart said he isn’t concerned with the noise that comes with playing on the road at Georgia Tech.

“I’m just worried about doing the same things we’ve been doing and being ready to attack,” he said.