CLEMSON — T.J. Parker has yet to play in Boston, but he’s eager for the opportunity to take the field at Alumni Stadium in Chestnut Hill, Mass., on Saturday.

Coming off a strong performance, Parker was named Player of the Game by Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney following Clemson’s win over North Carolina last week.

“Being able to know the work I put in all for the by week and last week showed on the field, it’s exciting,” Parker said.

The recognition from his head coach meant a great deal to the defensive end. After spending countless hours refining his technique, seeing his effort turn into production was rewarding.

“For me, back to work, you know. I want to keep stacking days,” Parker said.

As Clemson prepares for Boston College, Parker understands the challenge ahead. He’s not underestimating a team whose record doesn’t reflect its competitiveness.

“But if you watch on tape you wouldn’t be able to tell, they play hard, very big group,” he said. “They’re a really good football team.”

Boston College (1-4, 0-3 ACC) may not have the wins to show for it, but Parker knows firsthand that a record never tells the full story. Just last week, Clemson was 0-2 in ACC play.

“Nobody who’s a true competitor is happy about the way starting one and three,” he said. “Nobody really wants that.”

The Tigers’ victory over UNC provided momentum, but Parker emphasized that it was only a step forward. Not a destination. His focus now is on consistency and preparation.

“At the end of the day you just got to get better every day, every week,” he said. “For me, focus on each week preparing the best I can.”

Clemson knows Boston College won’t make things easy. The Tigers will need to match intensity with execution to secure their second ACC win of the season.

“We got to play with our hair on fire,” Parker said.

That’s exactly what he expects from himself and his teammates this weekend — relentless energy, determination, and heart.

“Bring the juice and bring the heartbeat,” he said.