CLEMSON — Even as a sophomore, he was making his mark on the Clemson defensive line, and he continues to shine among the veterans.

Defensive tackle Stephiylan Green has found himself as a key member of the Clemson defense, recording two sacks in his past two games. He has 13 tackles overall in five games this season, including two starts. He also has two quarterback pressures.

While he is surrounded by seniors and veterans like Peter Woods and DeMonte Capehart, Green continues to stand out, particularly in crucial down situations.

“The work is finally showing up,” he said. “I’m just playing a role, trying to get better every day, and the work is finally showing up. We’ve been working hard all summer, and as a team, we have just been together…it’s finally showing up, and I’m just happy to see the results.”

Green played in nine games as a freshman, ending the season with 17 tackles and a single sack against Appalachian State early in the 2024 season. This year, Green is already on track to smash his previous snaps while he continues to develop into a potential future starter on the defensive line.

“Every time I go out there, every play, I try to be a factor,” Green said. “I just try to be a factor and try to make myself matter out there, try to be destructive and to dominate, win my one-on-ones…if somebody gets injured and somebody has to step up, it shouldn’t be a drop off. Everybody should be able to impact the game.”

The snaps that Green has earned have certainly been put to good use, and his ability to scare and bring pressure to the quarterback is extremely valuable. The 6-foot-4, 290-pound lineman earned a sack on first down during a UNC drive in the middle of the second quarter, creating a large deficit on second down, which eventually led to a Tarheels punt. The Tigers were able to quickly score a touchdown on the following drive.

“I envision making plays before the game, every game,” Green said. “So, when the results come and they show up, it makes me happy, and it makes me know that I could really do it. Put in the work every day, go to practice, work, and the results will show up.”

Green will look to continue making a big impact for the defense when the Tigers travel to Chestnut Hill, Mass., to face Boston College on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. (ACCN).