Clemson Corner Confident as Tigers prepare for Carolina Game

CLEMSON – What would the Clemson Tigers be without a formidable defense?

It hasn’t been the best season for the defensive unit, but there is a lot to be thankful for as a Tigers fan this Thanksgiving week and throughout this year’s college football season. One item of pride comes from the younger brother of an NFL star.

Avieon Terrell, second-year cornerback from Clemson and sibling of Atlanta Falcon AJ Terrell, has been a big impact player in his second year this season, with his stats backing up his play. Over the course of this season, Terrell is a top leader in forced fumbles, interceptions and pass deflections.

Terrell was blatant and real when asked about his play and whether he takes pride in his defensive coverage.

“I’m proud of it,” he said. “Even though I don’t like it when people catch the ball, if they do and are able to catch the ball in tight coverage, I give them props for making a good catch.”

It’s not common for opponents to make huge plays against Terrell, but he takes the opportunity to acknowledge it and grow in his game. Terrell, a top defensive player for the Tigers, is considered one of the unit’s leaders and has been compared in his position to former Clemson cornerback Nate Wiggins, who was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens last year.

There’s a big game coming up for the 12th-ranked Tigers as they face No. 15 South Carolina at home in their final game of the regular season. Terrell emphasized the importance of sticking to his assignments in the upcoming rivalry game.

“Oh, it’s big,” he said. “Our coach just teaches us to stay sticky when the quarterback gets in trouble, and when we’re in the man, stay with that guy because he can’t get out of the pocket and pretend to run and throw the ball deep .”

Similarly, Terrell was asked about his overall preparation for the rivalry game. He was brutally honest about how every game looks the same in preparation.

“Just the same as any game, you know?” Terrell said. “Just lock up, tune everything, watch my movie. It’s actually the same preparation.”

Terrell will prepare to hit the road with confidence and take on the South Carolina Gamecocks at Memorial Stadium this Saturday at noon.