Clemson’s Khalil Barnes has been named the Thorpe Award National Defensive Back of the Week. This honor comes on the heels of his outstanding performance against South Carolina, where he made significant contributions to Clemson’s 16-7 victory. Notably, Barnes recorded takeaways on consecutive plays, a feat not achieved by a Tiger since Brian Dawkins in 1995.
Barnes’ performance was nothing short of stellar. He returned a fumble for 42 yards for a touchdown, and followed that up with an interception just 35 seconds later. In addition to these game-changing plays, he added four tackles and a pair of pass breakups to his tally. His efforts were instrumental in securing the win for Clemson and highlighted his skills as a defensive back.
The Paycom Jim Thorpe Award, which Barnes received, is a highly prestigious honor in college football. It is given to the best defensive back based on their performance on the field, athletic ability, and character. The award is sponsored by Paycom Software, Inc., and is named after the legendary athlete Jim Thorpe, cementing it’s status as a testament to exceptional talent and dedication in the sport.
While Barnes took the spotlight, it’s worth noting that Week 13 also saw commendable performances from other players. Tulane’s Kam Pedescleaux and Oklahoma State’s Trey Rucker received honorable mentions for their contributions in their respective games. As the season continues, fans can look forward to more thrilling performances and unexpected turns.
