Clemson returns eight starters from last year’s defense that led the Tigers to the College Football Playoff, including a handful of All-Americans up front. But the Tigers must replace, perhaps, their defensive MVP from 2017 — linebacker Dorian O’Daniel.
The All-American was a Butkus Award finalist l after recording 104 tackles, 11.5 tackles for loss, five sacks and a pair of pick-sixes.
O'Daniel excelled in coverage and at stopping the run, allowing him to stay on the field, no matter the situation.
Redshirt sophomore Isaiah Simmons, who played safety last season, is hoping to fill in for O’Daniel in 2018.