
Clemson Names Tom Allen Defensive Coordinator
CLEMSON, S.C. — Clemson Football Head Coach Dabo Swinney announced the hiring of Tom Allen as the team’s new defensive coordinator. The Clemson University Board of Trustees Compensation Committee approved the decision on Tuesday.
Allen will be formally introduced during a press conference at the Smart Family Media Center on Wednesday, Jan. 15, at 1:30 p.m. ET, streamed live on ClemsonPlus.com.
“We’ve added an outstanding football coach and leader to our program,” Swinney said. “Tom brings a wealth of experience and was highly recommended by some of the most respected voices in the game. After a standout year at Penn State as defensive coordinator, we are excited to have him on board.”
Allen arrives with over 30 years of coaching experience, most recently serving as defensive coordinator and linebackers coach at Penn State in 2024. Under his leadership, the Nittany Lions achieved a program-record 13 wins and advanced to the College Football Playoff. His defense was pivotal in victories over SMU and Heisman runner-up Ashton Jeanty’s Boise State squad, helping Penn State secure a spot in the national quarterfinals.

Penn State’s defense under Allen ranked seventh nationally in total defense (294.8 yards per game) and eighth in scoring defense (16.5 points per game). The unit also finished second in tackles for loss (119) and fifth in sacks (44). Defensive end Abdul Carter earned unanimous All-America honors during Allen’s tenure.
“I’m grateful for this opportunity to lead Clemson’s defense,” Allen said. “Coach Swinney’s leadership is inspiring, and I’m eager to work with the talented staff and players here. I also want to thank Coach James Franklin and Penn State for an incredible experience.”
Allen’s extensive coaching history includes a transformative tenure as head coach at Indiana from 2017-2023, where he earned National Coach of the Year honors in 2020. He began his career in high school football before advancing through the collegiate ranks, with stops at Ole Miss, South Florida, and Indiana.
A native of New Castle, Indiana, Allen holds degrees from Maranatha Baptist and Indiana University. He and his wife, Tracy, have three children.
Swinney emphasized his confidence in Allen, saying, “Tom is the perfect fit for our program. His commitment to excellence aligns with our goals for 2025 and beyond.”
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