Clemson linebacker J.D. Davis says the reason why he stepped in and played well last week for an injured Kendall Joseph against Florida State is because of his preparation.

Tigers’ head coach Dabo Swinney always tells his players, including the backups, to prepare each and every week as if they are going to be the start because they never know when their number is going to be called.

When Davis’ number was called last week, he stepped up and filled in for Joseph, whose knee was steal tender from the week before. There was no drop off with Davis as he led the Tigers with 8 tackles, including 1.5 tackles for loss as Clemson held the Seminoles to 229 total yards and to just 21 yards rushing.

“One of our core values is to play with depth, develop guys. It is not just about the starters,” Davis said. “Like I said, a bunch of guys are on scholarship and they are itching to play too. Preparation is the key. I think that is why guys can step in and act like nothing has happened because we all prepare well.”

Davis could be called upon to start again this week as Joseph is again listed as questionable for Saturday’s game against The Citadel.