Clemson’s Defense Shines in Rivalry Win, Jones and Parker Earn ACC Honors
In a game where defense told the story, two Clemson Tigers made sure their names were etched into rivalry lore - and the ACC took notice.
Safety Ricardo Jones and defensive end T.J. Parker were both recognized with ACC weekly honors following Clemson’s 28-14 win over South Carolina on Saturday, a victory that extended the Tigers’ road win streak in the Palmetto Bowl to six straight. For a program that prides itself on defensive tradition, this was a throwback performance - and Jones and Parker were front and center.
Let’s start with Jones, who earned ACC Defensive Back of the Week honors for the first time in his career - and he didn’t just earn it, he owned it. The sophomore safety had a career day, grabbing two interceptions, including a 12-yard pick-six that slammed the door on South Carolina’s comeback hopes.
That touchdown wasn’t just a game-sealer - it was a statement. Jones was the only player in the country last week to record multiple interceptions and take one back to the house.
With that performance, Jones now leads the team with six interceptions on the season - the most by a Clemson player since DeAndre McDaniel’s eight back in 2009. That’s not just leading the Tigers; it’s leading the entire Power Five and ranking second nationally. In a season where Clemson’s secondary has had its ups and downs, Jones has emerged as a true ballhawk and a difference-maker on the back end.
Then there’s T.J. Parker, who was named ACC Defensive Lineman of the Week.
If Jones was the closer, Parker was the tone-setter. The sophomore defensive end was relentless off the edge, racking up four tackles, three tackles for loss, three sacks, and a fumble recovery - all in one afternoon.
His three sacks tied a Clemson-South Carolina rivalry record, matching Chester McGlockton’s mark from 1990. And with that performance, Parker moved past McGlockton for 10th on Clemson’s all-time sack list.
It was Parker’s third career ACC weekly honor and his first of the season. He’s now one of just two players in the Dabo Swinney era - alongside Vic Beasley - to record multiple career games with at least three sacks.
That’s elite company. And for a player who’s only a sophomore, it’s a sign that the best may still be ahead.
Together, Jones and Parker didn’t just help win a rivalry game - they reminded everyone what Clemson football has long been built on: defense, dominance, and big-time players stepping up when it matters most.
As the Tigers await their bowl destination, one thing is certain: if this defense shows up like it did in Columbia, whoever they face next better come ready. Clemson is chasing a 15th straight season with a postseason win - the longest streak in FBS history - and with guys like Jones and Parker leading the charge, that streak is very much alive.