Report: Clemson working toward deal to hire Penn State DC Tom Allen

Clemson is reportedly working toward a deal to hire Penn State defensive coordinator Tom Allen to the same role, according to ESPN’s Pete Thamel.

“Sources: Clemson is working toward a deal to hire Penn State DC Tom Allen as the school’s new defensive coordinator,” Thamel wrote on Twitter. “He’s the top target and a final decision is expected in the upcoming days.”

Allen spent the 2024 season with the Nittany Lions as the DC following eight seasons as the head coach of Indiana. Now, he’ll head to the ACC to coach under Dabo Swinney.

Allen initially replaced Manny Diaz as Penn State’s defensive coordinator. Diaz left last year to become the head coach of Duke.

Tom Allen reportedly headed to Clemson

As a head coach, Allen went 33-49 with the Hoosiers, but made it to three bowl games during his time. He also led Indiana to a final ranking of No. 12 in the AP Poll during the shortened 2020 season.

However, struggles over the last three years of his tenure led to his firing. In total defense, Penn State ranked No. 29 in the country under Allen this season.

The Nittany Lions were also tied for 12th in scoring defense, No. 17 in rushing defense and No. 50 in passing defense.

Overall, it seems like Allen could be an improvement for the Tigers. He’s expected to replace the outgoing Wes Goodwin, who was fired by Swinney earlier this month.

“After meeting with Coach Goodwin on Sunday evening, I have decided to make a change at our defensive coordinator position,” Swinney said in a statement. “I want to thank Wes for his character, commitment, leadership and dedication as well as the relentless work ethic with which he approached his job every day.

“Wes has been a part of our program for 13 of the past 16 years, and he played an instrumental part in all of our success. I love Wes and his family and wish him all the best as he continues his journey. I know he has a bright future ahead.”