Wes Goodwin on his time as Clemson's defensive coordinator, working with Venables as a HC (2025)

Wes Goodwin is in a new spot now, working under Brent Venables at Oklahoma. But it’s his time at Clemson, where he led the defense for three seasons, that continues to shape his outlook as a coach.

When Goodwin met with reporters in Norman recently, he spent more time looking back than looking forward—speaking candidly about the highs, the struggles, and what he took away from running Clemson’s defense.

“We had some really cool moments,” Goodwin said. “Winning two ACC championships out of the three years and going to the College Football Playoff this year and the Orange Bowl in my first year. You live your life under a microscope in those types of positions, and you’ve always got to be true to yourself and be who you are.”

From 2022 to 2024, Goodwin’s defenses saw both success and setbacks. Clemson finished in the top 10 nationally in total defense in 2023, but took a big step back in 2024, especially against the run. The Tigers gave up over 160 rushing yards per game last season—their worst run defense statistically since 2011. The struggles peaked in the CFP loss to Texas, when Clemson allowed nearly 300 yards on the ground.

That game proved to be the end of Goodwin’s run in the coordinator chair. But he doesn't carry any bitterness—only perspective.

“It’s already hard enough being yourself, don’t try to be someone else,” he said. “That’s the biggest thing—blocking out the outside noise and just focusing on the task at hand. And just keep your circle small. There’s only so many people in this profession that you can truly trust.”

Goodwin admitted the path might have gone differently. When Venables left for Oklahoma after the 2021 season, Goodwin thought he might follow—until Dabo Swinney handed him the keys to the defense.

“I never knew how it would all shake out,” Goodwin said. “If I hadn’t gotten the opportunity at Clemson to be the coordinator, most definitely, I would have loved to have joined (Venables) here. So it worked out for me to take over at Clemson, and now it’s worked out for me to join the program here. I can’t tell you how excited and fired up I am to be here.”

Now an assistant linebackers coach with the Sooners, Goodwin has reunited with Venables and several former Clemson staffers, including Todd Bates and Miguel Chavis. He’s already seeing growth in himself in just a short time.

“Every day is a new challenge,” he said. “I’ve grown tremendously in the two months that I’ve been here, just from fundamental football to scheme to whatever… I’ve learned so much from a linebacker teaching and fundamental standpoint.”

He’s also enjoying a different perspective of Venables—this time as a head coach.

“It’s been really cool to see him in that role,” Goodwin said. “No one is a better recruiter and no one’s going to outwork him. No one’s a better coach of defensive football, I believe, in this country. I’m honored to work with him again.”

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This article originally appeared on Clemson Wire: Oklahoma coach Wes Goodwin on his tenure as Clemson's DC

Wes Goodwin on his time as Clemson's defensive coordinator, working with Venables as a HC (2025)

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