Clemson University has bolstered its defensive coaching staff by hiring Mike Houston, a seasoned coach with a diverse background in football. Houston, who served as the head coach at East Carolina University from 2019 to 2024, will join Clemson’s staff as a defensive analyst.
Mike Houston began his coaching career in 1994, initially working at North Carolina high schools, including a decade-long tenure at Asheville’s Roberson High School. He transitioned to the collegiate level in 2006, serving as the defensive coordinator at Brevard College, a Division III institution. From 2007 to 2010, he held the same position at Lenoir-Rhyne University, a Division II school.
In 2011, Houston took on the role of head coach at the University of Lenoir-Rhyne, where he achieved a remarkable 14-0 record, leading the team to a national championship. His success at Lenoir-Rhyne caught the attention of larger programs, and in 2012, he became the head coach at The Citadel. During his tenure from 2014 to 2018, Houston revitalized The Citadel’s football program, earning Southern Conference Coach of the Year honors in 2015.
Houston’s most recent position was as the head coach at East Carolina University from 2019 to 2024. Over six seasons, he compiled a record of 27-38. His tenure concluded after a 3-4 start to the 2024 season.
At Clemson, Houston will serve as a defensive analyst, a role that involves evaluating and analyzing game footage, assisting in game planning, and providing strategic insights to the defensive coaching staff. This position allows Houston to leverage his extensive coaching experience to contribute to Clemson’s defensive strategies without the responsibilities of a head coach.
Houston’s hiring is part of a broader restructuring of Clemson’s defensive coaching staff. In January 2025, Clemson appointed Tom Allen as the new defensive coordinator. Allen, who previously served as the defensive coordinator at Penn State, brings a wealth of experience to the role. Under his leadership, Penn State’s defense ranked in the top 10 nationally in scoring defense, total defense, and rushing defense during the 2024 season.
The addition of Houston and Allen signifies Clemson’s commitment to enhancing its defensive capabilities. By integrating seasoned coaches with diverse backgrounds, the Tigers aim to strengthen their defensive unit and maintain their competitive edge in collegiate football.
Mike Houston’s transition from head coach to defensive analyst at Clemson University reflects a strategic move to utilize his extensive coaching experience in a new capacity. His diverse background, including successful stints at various collegiate levels, positions him as a valuable asset to Clemson’s defensive coaching staff. Coupled with the recent hiring of Tom Allen as defensive coordinator, Houston’s addition underscores Clemson’s dedication to building a robust and effective defense for the upcoming seasons.
