Bill Belichick Names Christian Wilkins His Favorite Clemson Prospect Ever Scouted

Swinney, sitting beside Belichick, grinned at the mention of Wilkins — a former team captain and national champion at Clemson — and noted that the star defensive tackle was a major New England fan himself.

“Christian, he’ll appreciate that,” Swinney said. “He’s a huge Boston guy. Big Patriots fan. So he’ll appreciate that. I don’t know if he’ll see this or not, but he’ll appreciate it.”

But Swinney couldn’t let the moment pass without reminding everyone of another superstar: DeAndre Hopkins.

“DeAndre — if one guy was on him, he’s wide open. If two are on him, he’s still open. So throw it anyway.”

Belichick agreed, admitting Hopkins was one of the most difficult receivers to game plan for.

“We double-covered Hopkins as much as any player I’ve ever coached,” he said.

As for another Clemson great, Dexter Lawrence, Swinney joked that the New York Giants star might take issue with Wilkins being Belichick’s favorite. Belichick didn’t argue — but was thankful he didn’t have to face Lawrence often.

“Thankfully, he was in the NFC,” Belichick said. “He was unblockable. So that was clear.”

The segment, full of mutual respect and behind-the-scenes anecdotes, airs as part of ACC Huddle Special: Dabo Swinney & Bill Belichick on Wednesday night.