Clemson defensive coordinator Brent Venables has solidified himself as one of the best defensive play callers in the country over the past several seasons with the Tigers, even bringing home the FootballScoop Defensive Coordinator of the Year Award following the 2014 season.
In an interesting article released today by ESPN, Venables was asked about how he approaches play calling during close games, which is something he should know a thing or two about this season, as Clemson is 5-0 this season in games decided by a touchdown or less.
"It’s just trusting your guys, and trying to help put them in position, but ultimately they make the plays, they beat the blocks, they cover people, they tackle -- not the coaches," Venables told ESPN.
“You can screw it up for them with bad calls, but there are no magical calls. When it’s all good, it’s because somebody does something really well. Sometimes the other team messes up, too, and you’re feasting on them."
Head here to read the full piece from ESPN, including some input from Venables on what close games can teach players.