A change of environment can impact your output level in sports. That change of environment, or rather change of altitude, got Clemson’s defense to deliver its best performance of the season, bashing UNC 38-10. The unit had been getting gashed for 362 yards per game before Week 6. Suddenly, it looked like the dominant force everyone expected with DC Tom Allen. UNC could convert just two of 11 third-down attempts. After allowing a field goal on the opening drive, Clemson’s defense forced four consecutive three-and-outs to seize control. The turnaround, though, wasn’t just about the opponent being undermatched. It was about where Allen was standing while calling the shots.

After calling four games from the comfort of the press box, Allen decided to switch to the sidelines. “I need to com

See Full Page