Clemson Football: The 10 Greatest Tigers of the Danny Ford era

TAMPA, FL - NOVEMBER 28: Retired coach Danny Ford of the Clemson Tigers takes the field during pre-game ceremonies before play against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets in the 2009 ACC Football Championship Game December 5, 2009 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Al Messerschmidt/Getty Images) /

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Michael Dean Perry (Clemson football) /

Greatest Clemson football players of Danny Ford era: 5. Michael Dean Perry

Michael Dean Perry was a highly-touted recruit coming out of high school and he did not disappoint.

Though he was overshadowed at times by his big brother William ‘The Fridge’ Perry, Michael Dean may be the best defensive lineman to ever play at Clemson football.

He was a first-team All-American in 1987 and earned ACC Player of the Year that season. During his time with the Tigers, he set ACC records career tackles for loss and sacks.

Perry would go on to be drafted by the Cleveland Browns in 1988 and played 10 seasons in the NFL. He earned Pro Bowl honors six times and was named the AFC Defensive Player of the Year in 1989.

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