What he did: The last time Clemson won a national football championship, Dan Benish was busting through Nebraska’s huge offensive line and causing havoc during the dramatic 1982 Orange Bowl. A former Atlanta Falcons defensive tackle, Benish helped lead the Tigers to a huge upset over the Cornhuskers and their last national championship. When Clemson faces Alabama in Monday’s title game, his nephew, freshman Mitch Hyatt from North Gwinnett High School, will be playing a key role as the Tigers’ starting left tackle.
But it was never that easy for Benish.
The Hubbard, Ohio, native grew up a huge Ohio State fan and had every intention of playing for Woody Hayes and the Buckeyes.