"We’re going to suffocate you" - Dabo Swinney's assistant fires warning to rest of CFB teams as Clemson preps for LSU test

Clemson Tigers linebackers coach Ben Boulware has sent a warning to other teams ahead of the 2025 season. They finished last season with a 10-4 record and clinched a spot in the College Football Playoff. Boulware believes the Tigers' defense has improved enough to compete against the best teams in the nation.

Boulware shared a video on X (formerly Twitter) of Clemson linebacker Wade Woodaz, highlighting the Tigers' defense.

"When I think of Clemson defense, I think of suffocating," Woodaz said. "You ain't getting nothing all day. And intense. Like, of passion. Swagger. Confidence. That subtle confidence. Like, yeah, we're not too flashy. We don't have to talk about it, rather just go be about it. Go do it and then shake your hand when we're done."

Boulware supported the linebacker's claims and reiterated that their defense will be an issue for their opponents.

"In 2025, we're going to suffocate you then shake your hand," Boulware tweeted.

The Tigers are coming off a bad defensive season. They ranked last in total yards allowed (5,238) and ninth in total yards allowed per game (374.1) in the Atlantic Coast Conference.

Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney will have several key defensive players returning for the 2025 season, including Woodaz for his senior year. The linebacker finished his junior year with 82 total tackles (41 solo), three sacks, three forced fumbles and one interception.

Woodaz could play a more prominent role in the defense now that Swinney has lost linebacker Barrett Carter, who the Cincinnati Bengals drafted.

Another linebacker who could be crucial to the Tigers' success is Sammy Brown. He had the third-most tackles for the team in his freshman year, achieving 80 total tackles (48 solo) and five sacks.

Clemson vs. LSU: Dabo Swinney's defense first challenge of the 2025 season

Swinney will kick off the upcoming season against the LSU Tigers on Aug. 30. The matchup will mark the first time both teams have played each other since the College Football Playoff national championship game on Jan. 13, 2020. LSU defeated Clemson 42-25 with quarterback Joe Burrow throwing for five touchdowns.

LSU starting quarterback Garrett Nussmeier is set to lead them against Swinney's team. Nussmeier ranked fifth nationally last season in passing yards with 337 completions for 4,052 yards and 29 touchdowns. Clemson's defense will have the opportunity to back up Woodaz and Boulware's claims and avenge their loss from five years ago.