Clay to Sit Out Semester

Jan. 16, 2007

Clemson, SC – Clemson starting linebacker Antonio Clay will not be in school for the spring semester of 2007, but is expected to return to the university in the summer. Clemson Head Coach Tommy Bowden made the announcement on Monday.

“Antonio has some family issues to deal with and will be at home this semester,” said Bowden. “He has our complete support and we look forward to his return to Clemson this summer.”

In early September Clay’s sister lost her life in an automobile accident near his hometown of Jeffersonville, GA.

Clay was the third leading tackler on Clemson’s defense that ranked in the top 16 in the nation in total defense and scoring defense. He had 95 tackles for the season, including 9.5 tackles for loss. He started 11 of the 13 games as a sophomore. He led the Tigers in tackles in the victory over 13th ranked Georgia Tech on October 21 with 13 and was named the ACC Defensive Lineman of the Week.