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Any self-respecting linebacker -- especially one of Adams' caliber -- would prefer not to be known as a "Termite."
Which is why he has morphed the moniker, handed to him by defensive coordinator Reggie Herring, into a more menacing version for 2000: the "Terminite."
The alteration, although self-generated, seems apropos. At 5-foot-11 and 220 pounds, Adams' stature may be diminutive, but the All-American's numbers are of purely Schwarzenegger-ian proportions.
As a sophomore in 1999, Adams took home ACC defensive player of the year honors, leading the nation in both tackles (186) and tackles for a loss (35). He set 10 Clemson defensive records, including most tackles in a game (27 vs. South Carolina on Nov. 20), and was named second-team All-America by the Associated Press.
Some of Adams' peers are already placing the preseason All-American's name alongside -- or even above -- former Tiger greats Anthony Simmons, Jeff Davis and Levon Kirkland.
"I think he's better than Anthony Simmons," senior defensive lineman Terry Jolly said. "Anywhere on the field, Keith can come in and destroy you."
-- Luke Winn
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Adams averaged one tackle for every 4.5 snaps he played in 1999. Andy Lyons/Allsport
