CLEMSON – Football is a game that needs leaders on the field, and the Clemson Tigers are taking that to an extra level on defense. Wes Goodwin is emphasizing communication on the field, and it’s a large reason why they’re arguable the best defense in the ACC.

Looking at the Tigers, linebacker Jeremiah Trotter Jr. and Jalyn Phillips are the leaders of the defense as veterans in the middle of the group. That’s not telling the whole story though, as Clemson is making it a job for everyone to talk on the field.

Linebacker Wade Woodaz, just a sophomore but making his voice heard on the field. He says Goodwin is making it crucial in practice, and it’s continuing to translate on the field.

“That’s one of Coach Wes’ big ideas is communicate, talk on the field and we’ve ramped it up. We talk a lot more and we’re all on the same page. If you’re all wrong, you’re right so if we’re all on the same page, we’re good,” Woodaz said.

This season is a strong one for Woodaz with two sacks and two interceptions as he’s cemented his spot as the third linebacker for the Tigers. It’s an important development given the pair of Trotter and Barrett Carter may be headed to the NFL after this season.

Woodaz said that Phillips is the main voice on the defense, but went on to detail seven other players that make themselves heard on the field. It’s a lead-by-committe in Clemson and it’s why their last two ACC opponents have totaled just 26 points.