Haines was a finalist for the Broyles Award (top assistant) in 2024 and a semifinalist for the award in 2023. During Allen’s one season in State College, Penn State, the Lions finished No. 7 in FBS in total defense (294.8), No. 8 in scoring defense (16.5) and No. 9 in rushing defense (101.9).

Penn State football opened its biggest coaching position available on Monday. Tom Allen pulled the stunner by leaving his defensive coordinator post for Clemson. The now ex-DC jams from one College Football Playoff qualifier to join another.

James Franklin looks set to enter his third defensive coordinator search in four years. On Monday morning, it was reported that Tom Allen is nearing a deal to become Clemson’s defensive coordinator.