Tigers Hold Tuesday Bowl Practice

CLEMSON, S.C. — Much of the talk after Clemson’s fourth bowl practice on Tuesday concerned players old and young. Head Coach Dabo Swinney announced his permanent captains for the 2014 season, and had his first day of “extra” practice for his younger players.

“We had 25 different players receive votes from their teammates in the voting for team captains and that speaks highly of the leadership on this year’s team — that is the most I have had since I have been the head coach,” said Swinney, who is in his sixth complete season at the helm of the Clemson program.

“That said, we did have two players on defense and two players on offense stand out in the voting. The captains from the defense for 2014 are Grady Jarrett and Stephone Anthony and the captains from the offense are Sam Cooper and Adam Humphries.

“Those are four outstanding young men who have done everything we have asked of them in terms of leading this program. They have all been fully engaged and have done everything they can to make this the best team it can be.”

Swinney also was proud of senior Vic Beasley, who was named a first-team All-American by the Associated Press.

“Vic has had a great season, and a great career,” he said. “He will leave Clemson as its all-time sack leader and that is something considering the defensive players that have come through this program. I am proud of Vic, and he is very deserving.”

Swinney held a practice for all the players for about 110 minutes, then the younger players went an additional 20 minutes.

“We took Friday, Saturday and Monday to build a foundation for these young guys. Today we cut them loose and let them go man to man and just play. It is valuable work for them. It is a chance to build confidence, respond to coaching and see how they have improved.”

Swinney talked about most of the young scholarship players after practice, but he started with  freshman Trevion Thompson, a 6-foot-3 receiver from Durham, N.C., who is redshirting this year.

“Trevion has improved night and day physically,” Swinney said. “He has really made a big move through his work in the power hour. He just looks better in every phase of the game. He will have a great opportunity this spring. I am proud of what he has done.”