CLEMSON — Clemson long snapper Philip Florenzo made a game-changing play against Notre Dame last week. He recovered a muffed punt in the first quarter to set the wheels in motion for the Tigers’ victory.

Florenzo spoke with the media earlier this week to divulge his once-in-a-lifetime moment on Frank Howard Field.

–Florenzo detailed his transition from high school to Clemson on special teams. He elaborated on the multifaceted knowledge he holds in differing positions and sports that allows him to be more effective for his team as a long snapper. “I got into long-snapping late in my career. I was a linebacker, a guard, a defensive end, I played lacrosse. I understand leverage, angles, and how to get away from guys. One thing I’ve learned since playing (long snapper) is on every punt I go out there for, I am probably if not the most unathletic guy on that field. I have to figure out how to get away from them without them getting their hands on me. Having that background of playing other sports growing up, and not just being a long snapper, really has helped me. I think that’s why I’m good at not getting blocked.”

–Florenzo, a walk-on in 2021, has clearly made some great strides to get to experience a rare moment like a muffed punt recovery. He was asked about his relationship with fellow long snapper Holden Caspersen, a red shirt sophomore. “I’m blessed to have a kid as talented as him be my competition. Iron sharpens iron, and I have to be on my A-game every day to compete with him. We have a good relationship. We respect each other and we respect what we do.”

–Florenzo broke down the feelings surrounding the play that helped shift the game’s momentum, “It was a surreal moment. It was undoubtedly a highlight of my career. To get that one moment when the whole crowd is cheering for you, and your name is announced on the loud speaker, I’ll never forget it… It was cool to get a little recognition for once, but I give the credit to Aidan Swanson. His punting was awesome on Saturday.”

–Following Saturday’s victory in Death Valley, Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney mentioned Florenzo’s skill in his post-game press conference. “He’s so good at punt coverage, he might have a chance to snap professionally.” Florenzo was asked about Swinney’s comment, “If I feel like I have a chance, I might give it a try, but when I started this journey that wasn’t even in the cards for me.”

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