Dabo Swinney is making a change to its coaching staff after a 10-4 season. On Wednesday night, Clemson reportedly parted ways with defensive coordinator Wes Goodwin.
After Brent Venables left Clemson for the head coaching position at Oklahoma in 2021, Swinney promoted Goodwin from senior defensive assistant to defensive coordinator and linebackers coach, stating, "All I can tell you is Wes Goodwin is special… Wes has worked with the best of the best... He’s worked obviously with Brent [Venables], so he has a wealth of experience that I think he will tap into and do it his way.”
Under Goodwin's leadership, the Tigers ranked in the top 10 for total defense, first downs allowed per game, opponent passing yards per game, and interceptions in 2023. Clemson also led the nation in turnovers, defensive touchdowns, and pick-sixes.
However, in 2024, the defense took a serious step back. Clemson finished 62nd in yards per game.
The latest intel points to Goodwin joining Venables at Oklahoma. According to The Clemson Insider, the Sooners' DC Zac Alley is likely to move to West Virginia, opening up the spot for Goodwin.
It’s official #Clemson has parted ways with DC Wes Goodwin pic.twitter.com/yltwv53jBv
— ClemsonSportsNews (@ClemSportNews) January 2, 2025