‘Big brothers’ are regarded as the second greatest blessing after fathers. Indeed, having a big brother can be advantageous since they can offer support, love, safety, fun, and company. In addition to serving as teachers and role models, older siblings can aid in their younger siblings’ worldview development. This also applies to Liam Clifford, the wide receiver for Penn State. He looks up to his elder brother, Sean Clifford, and he emulates him.

And Liam started learning from the older one. “So really, I would say work ethic is something he taught me,” said Liam. The most fascinating fact is that Liam plays for the same program that his brother did. Even if we acknowledge that Liam’s older brother has contributed to his achievement, we cannot discount his parents’ encouragement. They are, in fact, the cornerstone of both brothers’ football careers. They serve as their cheerleaders, encouraging them both on and off the field. Let’s get to know those wonderful people.

Who is Liam Clifford’s Dad?

John Clifford, Liam Clifford’s father, attended the University of Dubuque to play baseball and football. Despite his encouragement, his son was unable to pursue a career in sports, particularly football. Perhaps he felt the need, but circumstances prevented him from pursuing a football career. However, he is knowledgeable and has guided his son during his formative years. But then, what field did John pursue his career in after graduating from Dubuque?

His career in business and management began when he received his degree from Dubuque. The Ohio native has experience in marketing and sales, having worked in roles that highlighted his proficiency in advancing sales tactics in the packaging sector. At Greif Inc., a major worldwide producer of industrial packaging goods, John Clifford is currently the Vice President of Sales and Marketing. For more than 22 years, he has worked for the company, concentrating on the Containerboard Mill Division.

Being the son of a marketing professional, Liam is passionate about pursuing a career in entrepreneurship. But he always prioritized football over anything. Since football is an essential part of Liam’s life, he cannot function without it. However, not only his father but his mother also play a major role in his passion for football.

Who is Liam Clifford’s mom?

Liam Clifford’s mother is Kelly Clifford, also known as Kelly Burke. She has contributed significantly to her boy’s sporting endeavors, especially in football. Because both of her boys, Liam and Sean, played football at PSU, the family has a strong connection to the school.

When Liam went to speak with James Franklin about his commitment to the program after making that connection, Liam said, “Coach Franklin got so emotional, and it was such a cool experience. I know it was cool for him because he said it was such a big compliment to have my parents allow two of their sons go to this school, and it just meant so much to him and it meant just as much to me. It’s a moment I’ll never forget, and it was really fun to have my whole family there.”

For now, it just shows that Liam’s entire family is participating in his achievements to date. Nonetheless, Kelly has had a significant role in her son’s education and upbringing; thus, her influence on his life goes beyond sports. Her encouragement has greatly aided his growth as an athlete and a person. The question now is, how did this talent end up at PSU?

Liam grew up where?

Cincinnati, Ohio, is where Liam Clifford was raised. Attending St. Xavier High School in the same place marked the beginning of his football career. He was an exceptional WR in high school, setting several records and winning various awards. Notably, he was one of the best players in Ohio with 166 career grabs for 2,538 yards and 30 TDs. He led his team to a state championship in 2020 and was voted the Division I State Offensive Player of the Year by the Ohio Prep Sportswriters Association.

Following high school, Clifford played football for PSU, where he became a wide receiver for the Nittany Lions. He started to make a big impact in the following seasons after red-shirting his first year in 2021. And the rest is history.

The outstanding wide receiver is now getting ready for the Orange Bowl matchup against Notre Dame. Will he be able to make a record against Notre Dame, similar to his high school performance? We should meet him on January 10 to see his performance.