With this year’s Clemson team, one thing in particular has really stuck out to cornerbacks coach Mike Reed.

“Something that’s been very evident through camp and through last spring is the leadership of these young men,” Reed said on Tuesday. “We have some great leaders.”

Moving forward into the 2024 campaign, with a couple of games already under their belt, Reed has confidence in the Tigers (1-1) after seeing how they bounced back from the lopsided season-opening loss to Georgia with a blowout win over App State last Saturday.

Along with the aforementioned leadership that has shown up in Clemson’s response to a disappointing Week 1 defeat, Reed loves the togetherness and tight-knit bond of the team – which he believes is vital in success.

“We have a team that actually loves each other, loves to be around each other,” he said. “And when you have that in the equation, you have success, and it’s good to see it.”

Added Reed: “As I always say, if football was like life, we’d be in a better place, especially with a team like this where you see love, guys caring for each other, hugging each other, hanging out with each other – not just in the facility, but outside the (Allen N. Reeves Football Complex.”

Following this Saturday’s open date, Clemson (No. 20 Coaches Poll, No. 22 AP Poll) will return to Death Valley for its ACC opener against NC State on Saturday, Sept. 21.