Clemson fans have another reason to celebrate, as three Tiger legends were just named the greatest to ever wear their jersey numbers in college football history, per ESPN’s latest rankings.
Quarterbacks Deshaun Watson and Trevor Lawrence, along with the iconic William “Refrigerator” Perry, took home top honors for numbers 4, 16, and 66. That’s three all-time greats, three numbers, and a whole lot of orange in the record books.
Deshaun Watson
Watson’s spot atop the list for the number 4 jersey is no surprise to anyone who watched him light up Death Valley. The two-time Heisman finalist went 32-3 as Clemson’s starter and delivered one of the most iconic moments in program history, throwing for 420 yards and hitting Hunter Renfrow for the game-winning score to topple Alabama and bring home the Tigers’ first national title since 1981.
Trevor Lawrence
Lawrence, who wore No. 16 with the poise of a veteran pro, edged out the likes of Peyton Manning for the top spot. All he did at Clemson was go 34-2 as a starter, win a national championship, toss 90 touchdowns, and rack up over 10,000 passing yards. Not bad for a guy who made winning look routine.
William Perry
Nobody moved the trenches quite like William “Refrigerator” Perry, who claimed the crown for No. 66. The three-time All-American and ACC Player of the Year was an unstoppable force, leading all of Division I with 2.45 tackles for loss per game as a senior. Perry made his mark early, too, helping power the Tigers to the 1981 national championship as a freshman.
Honorable Mentions
Clemson’s legacy runs even deeper, with safety Terry Kinard earning a nod among the top three for No. 43, just behind Troy Polamalu. And let’s not forget Banks McFadden, who also made the “three others” list at No. 66, right behind Perry.
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