Clemson is set to bring in Tom Allen as its next defensive coordinator. On Monday, the Clemson Board of Trustees’ Compensation Committee met to approve new football coaching salaries, signaling Allen’s impending hire.
Allen spent the 2024 season as Penn State’s defensive coordinator and linebackers coach, where he helped guide the Nittany Lions to the College Football Playoff semifinals. Under his leadership, Penn State’s defense ranked 29th nationally in total defense, 17th in rushing defense, and 50th in pass defense, while finishing tied for 12th in scoring defense.
Prior to his time at Penn State, Allen served as Indiana’s head coach for eight seasons, compiling a 33-49 record and leading the Hoosiers to three bowl games. During the shortened 2020 season, he guided Indiana to a 6-2 finish and a No. 12 ranking in the AP Poll, the program’s best season in decades.
Allen steps into a Clemson defense looking to rebound after a subpar 2024 campaign. The Tigers ranked 69th nationally in total defense, allowing 374.1 yards per game, and struggled against the run, giving up 160.7 yards per game—their worst mark since 2011. Clemson will hope Allen’s experience can restore the unit to its traditionally high standards.
Allen steps into a Clemson defense looking to rebound after a subpar 2024 campaign. The Tigers ranked 69th nationally in total defense, allowing 374.1 yards per game, and struggled against the run, giving up 160.7 yards per game—their worst mark since 2011. Clemson will hope Allen’s experience can restore the unit to its traditionally high standards.
