Clemson Football: Who is Tigers’ backup quarterback Chase Brice?

3. Mickey Conn is his uncle

Sometimes having the right connections can get you into better situations. Dabo Sweeney has spent years developing relationships with the players and coaching staff at Grayson High School in Loganville, SC. One man that Sweeney has tried to place into his staff over the past several seasons was Grayson High School Head Coach Mickey Conn. The opportunities were never quite there for Conn to join the Clemson football staff despite both sides showing interest in the idea until April of last year.

The announcement of the coveted 10th assistant coach for NCAA football programs was made and many coaches had the opportunity to add an extra guy here and there on their rosters. While some head coaches went for more higher profile hire’s, Dabo Swinney called Mickey Conn who was serving as a defensive assistant and promoted him to the position of Assistant Coach of Safeties.

Conn led Grayson High School to four top 25 finishes in his 16-year career as head coach and held the top spot twice during that time. He also achieved seven region championships, a state semifinal appearance in 2015, and a state championship in 2011 and left the Rams with a 137-48 record. And all though he had the track record to make a name for himself at the next level, he would also be given the opportunity to once again play one of America’s favorite sports again with his nephew Chase Brice.

Conn has had the opportunity to see his nephew grow up not only as a man but also as a player and had the unusual opportunity to coach him at Grayson. Brice played a large role in getting the Rams to the State Semifinal in 2015 while also leading them to a 13-1 record. Now, this proud uncle continues to see his nephew mature and continue winning games for the same team for the next few years.