Clemson’s Defensive Coordinator Leaves, Two Hired

In a less than surprising move to insiders, Clemson defensive coordinator Vic Koenning is leaving Clemson’s coaching staff.  The school released a statement tonight saying Koenning resigned. 
Koenning has guided Clemson’s defense since 2005. During the 2008 season, Koenning’s defense is ranked fourth in the ACC and tied for 16th nationally.
Over the past seven weeks, after Swinney took over as interim coach, there were inklings from those close to the program, and from Koenning himself, that he would not be retained.  He had a Tuesday morning meeting with Swinney.
Swinney said Monday at the news conference to announce his elevation to full-time head coach, that he would not discuss issues relating to his staff until after Clemson’s bowl game.  It’s not clear if Koenning will remain through then.  Swinney’s plan was for the coaching staff to remain intact through the bowl game.
Meanwhile, former Clemson tight end Danny Pearman, who played under Danny Ford in the late ‘80s, has been hired after spending the past season at Maryland, where he coached tight ends and served on special teams.  And former Tiger assistant Charlie Harbison was hired after serving on the Mississippi State staff and he’ll work on the defensive side of the ball.

Watch Dabo Swinney’s wife, Kathleen, react to the news her husband was named Clemson’s head coach.