Though some schools, who have traditionally been known for playing at elite levels on defense, have struggled this year, that is not the case at Clemson.
Under defensive coordinator Brent Venables, the Tigers still rank in the top 10 nationally in many defensive categories, including second in both tackles for loss and sacks. They also rank sixth in total defense (298.5 yds/game) and ninth in rushing defense (99.8 yds/game). Clemson is just outside the top 10 in scoring defense as they rank 11th, allowing just 17.5 points per game.
The crazy thing is the Tigers have done it with a defense that has had 23 different players start in 2020, up from about 16 per year normally under Venables.