CLEMSON — Fumbling the ball might be one of the worst things an offense can do, but for the squad on the other side, that’s been the goal every single game.

Newly named Jim Thorpe Award semifinalist Avieon Terrell currently leads the Tigers in forced fumbles this season. The junior cornerback has accounted for three of Clemson’s five forced fumbles so far this year. Entering the year, he’d only forced three in two seasons combined.

Through grit and notable effort, Terrell has become a key piece on the defense during a challenging stretch. Even with all he’s accomplished this year, he is still playing for more.

“I got more to the plate,” he said. “Feel like I can prove more. So, I really want to just do more.”

Communication is something he believes the secondary needs to improve on. That communication often leads to takeaways for the Tigers.

Weighing in at just 180 pounds, Terrell may be one of the smaller players on the field, but his hard work and confidence make up for it. Throughout his career, his growth has been clear on every snap.

Since earning his first start back in 2023, no other cornerback in the country has more forced fumbles than No. 8. The forced fumbles, though, just come naturally.

“I feel like it’s natural,” he said. “You know, if I see somebody lacking with that ball, I’m going to come get it.” “It’s just like they ain’t paying attention. But it’s natural.” 

As Clemson (3-4, 2-3 ACC) heads into the final month of the season, Terrell shares that the team’s mindset is simple. The Tigers want to focus on the next opponent and how to dominate them. Not past games, or ones two weeks away.

Terrell keeps his focus through faith and discipline.

“Just continue to talk to the Lord and maintain and stay focused,” he said.

That mentality, along with the prep and effort, helps him prepare to take away the ball on defense.

“If I see that ball, I’m gonna come get it. I’m gonna go get it,” Terrell said.

After every play, Terrell makes sure to celebrate with his teammates. Even if he’s the one who executed the play, he is aware it is a team effort, and it is because of all of them. He also knows that the celebration can’t go on so long, because again, one play doesn’t make the entire game.

“After the play, just celebrate with my teammates and then—all right, next play,” he said.

Clemson will look for many more reasons to celebrate when the Tigers take on Duke (4-3, 3-1 ACC) on Saturday at Memorial Stadium. A win would mark the first time Clemson has won on its home turf against a Power-4 school in over a year. But along with what Terrell said, one play doesn’t define the game.

“The game ain’t over,” he said. “Can’t be having that one play on my mind the whole game.”