Since Dabo Swinney became head coach of the Clemson Tigers football team, the program has gained a reputation for producing top-tier defensive players. The NFL is filled with defensive stars who developed under his leadership, including Dexter Lawrence of the New York Giants, widely regarded as one of the top defenders in the league.
However, nearly 35 years before Lawrence’s dominance, another defensive tackle was making a name for himself at Clemson—William “The Refrigerator” Perry. Perry’s freshman season in 1981 remains one of the most legendary in college football history, marking the beginning of a standout career.
Perry played a crucial role in the Tigers’ national championship win that season. His presence on the defensive line transformed the unit from solid to elite. Under head coach Danny Ford, Clemson’s defense dramatically improved, reducing their points allowed from 20.2 per game in 1980 to just 8.8 in 1981. Perry was particularly instrumental in neutralizing Nebraska’s Dave Rimington, a standout center, during Clemson’s 22-15 victory over Nebraska in the Orange Bowl. That win secured the Tigers’ first national title.
In a recent list of the greatest freshman seasons in college football history compiled by ESPN’s Bill Connelly, Perry’s performance in 1981 earned him the No. 44 spot. His exceptional debut was just the beginning, as he went on to become a consensus All-American in 1983 and was named ACC Player of the Year in 1984.
His dominant play at Clemson led to a first-round selection in the 1985 NFL Draft, where the Chicago Bears picked him 22nd overall. Perry’s impact extended to the NFL, where he was part of the Bears’ Super Bowl XX-winning team. In a blowout victory over the New England Patriots, Perry made history with a memorable touchdown run, further cementing his legendary status.
Perry spent 10 years in the NFL, with the first 8.5 years on the Bears before finishing his career with the Philadelphia Eagles. His legacy, both in college and the NFL, continues to be celebrated today.
