CLEMSON — Heading into the Syracuse game on Sept. 20, Clemson’s Jahiem Lawson was listed as co-starter with Will Heldt at left defensive end.

Lawson has proven he deserves the title as co-starter, as he has played 105 snaps through the first four games. He has made the most of his opportunities when he has got into the game, and the coaches are noticing.

Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney hinted Lawson will likely see more playing time this Saturday when the Tigers visit North Carolina (noon, ESPN).

“There have been a bunch of bright spots and Jahiem has certainly been one of them,” Swinney said after Wednesday’s practice.

Lawson has record 10 tackles thus far, including 2.5 tackles for loss and one sack. He has also broken up one pass. Swinney says his ability to be resistant on the edge has come a long way and is why he is finding his way onto the field more.

“Yeah, just the mass, just adding the physicality,” Swinney said. “He has always been been physical. He is heavy handed. That’s just natural for him. He’s natural pass rusher. I mean, he is 260. He showed up here at 210 pounds.

“So, he can hold the edge and he can take all the holes and really be a factor in the run game, as much as the passing game. I am really proud of him. He has really developed into a good player, and we’ve got another year or so. He is a guy we are counting on big time this year and next year.”