Clemson Football’s 10 Most Valuable Players in 2014

You already know how good the Clemson Tigers defense was in 2014. No. 1 in total defense, No. 1 in defensive efficiency, the accomplishments go on and on.

There was no good way for opposing offenses to attack Clemson because everyone on the defense played their role to near perfection. So how does an individual distinguish himself on such a dominant and balanced defense?

One sure-fire way to stand out is to do a bit of everything. That’s what safety Jayron Kearse did this season. Here are the numbers.

• 60 tackles
• 5 tackles for a loss
• 3 sacks
• 1 QB hurry
• 2 interceptions
• 5 pass break-ups and 7 passes defended
• 1 fumble recovery

Despite playing safety, Kearse’s three sacks were only topped by three other members of the Tigers’ defense. His 60 tackles were third on the team. Nobody but Garry Peters really outperformed him in passes defended or broken up, either, and nobody had more interceptions.

Of course, some of these numbers don’t seem overly impressive out of context. But keep in mind with Kearse and every other Clemson defender that opposing offenses were rarely on the field long. You can’t pile up the tackles when your opponents are only on the field for three plays at a time.

Next: Clemson Football's MVPs: No. 7