Rivalry Weekend Preview: Clemson vs. South Carolina
The annual in-state showdown between Clemson and South Carolina is back for its 122nd meeting this Saturday in Columbia. While neither program is enjoying a standout season, the stakes remain high. Here’s everything you need to know for gameday.
Game Details
- Who: Clemson (6-5) at South Carolina (4-7)
- When: Saturday at noon
- Where: Williams-Brice Stadium, Columbia, SC
- TV: SEC Network (Broadcast team: Taylor Zarzour, Matt Stinchcomb, Alyssa Lang)
- Streaming: ESPN / ESPN app
- Radio: Clemson – 105.5 FM; South Carolina – 107.5 FM; Satellite – Sirius XM 106 or 193
- Series History: Clemson leads 73-44-4; USC won the last matchup
Vegas Odds
South Carolina enters as a three-point favorite, marking the first time since 2013 that the Gamecocks are favored over Clemson. According to betting trends, 79% of gamblers expect USC to cover the spread, while ESPN’s Football Power Index gives South Carolina a 63.5% chance to win.
Weather Forecast
Expect partly cloudy skies with a low around 50 degrees. Rain is not expected.
Top Storylines
Clemson and South Carolina are reporting player availability for the conference matchup. On Clemson’s side, redshirt sophomore DT Stephiylan Green is expected to play. Freshman QB Chris Denson, who rushed for 106 yards in the second half against Furman, is questionable after a practice injury and could see a special package if healthy. For South Carolina, DE Dylan Stewart and WR Nyck Harbor, both absent in the last game, are set to return.
From 2014-2021, Clemson and Dabo Swinney recorded seven straight wins against South Carolina, tying the 1934-40 Tigers for the longest winning streak in series history. Recently, however, Shane Beamer’s Gamecocks have shifted momentum, posting two major road victories over ranked Clemson teams in 2022 and 2024. A win Saturday would mark Beamer’s third in five tries against Clemson, making him the first USC coach since Steve Spurrier to secure back-to-back wins in the rivalry. Even though South Carolina is already out of bowl contention, a win would cap the season on a high note.
Clemson coach Dabo Swinney is 9-7 against the Gamecocks and is chasing his 10th career victory against USC, which would make him only the second Clemson coach to reach that mark after Frank Howard (13). Clemson also aims to extend its streak of road wins in Columbia to six straight; the home team hasn’t won the Palmetto Bowl since Clemson’s 2018 home victory.
Matchup to Watch
South Carolina’s defense has forced 21 turnovers this season — first in the SEC and 11th nationally. Clemson’s offense ranks 68th nationally with 14 turnovers (eight fumbles, six interceptions). Despite some roster losses, USC’s defense has been opportunistic, especially in recent contests against Clemson and QB Cade Klubnik (allowing just 11.5 offensive points per game in the last two matchups).
On the flip side, South Carolina’s offensive line has struggled, allowing 38 sacks (No. 131 nationally) and 331 sack yards (No. 135). Last year, Clemson failed to pressure QB LaNorris Sellers effectively, but with an improved Tigers pass rush (No. 26 nationally in sacks), that could change.
Players to Watch
- Clemson QB Cade Klubnik: The senior is 1-1 against South Carolina but has yet to throw a touchdown against the Gamecocks. His final regular-season start will define part of his Clemson legacy.
- Clemson LB Sammy Brown: The sophomore, who was one of the few Clemson defenders to contain Sellers last year, will serve as a key quarterback spy. He’s recorded a sack in each of his last three games.
- South Carolina QB LaNorris Sellers: After an explosive performance last year, Sellers will look to replicate his success. If he can make plays as a passer as well as a runner, he could improve to 2-0 against Clemson.
- South Carolina DE Dylan Stewart: Quiet in last year’s matchup (one tackle, one pass deflection), Stewart could have a breakout rivalry performance. He’s recorded just one sack in his last five games.
