South Carolina state supremacy drives Clemson-South Carolina, known as the Palmetto Bowl.
Since 1896, Clemson leveraged recent ACC dominance to tilt momentum, but South Carolina’s SEC identity ensures program tension in this heated rivalry. This year's edition features two teams on the down swing, but have threatened opponents throughout the year. Dabo Swinney and the Tigers find themselves in a weird point of his tenure. However, a win over SC will lead to momentum.
On the other hand, Shane Beamer and the Gamecocks gave No. 3 Texas A&M a major first half scare weeks ago. They couldn't stop a second half comeback and ended up losing, but it was a good sign of what the program is capable of
The rivalry peaked through the eras of Steve Spurrier, Tommy Bowden and now Swinney, often shaping bowl placement and recruiting leverage in South Carolina. Clemson’s innovation and national reach has tested Carolina’s in-state hold, but the Gamecocks have produced impactful wins that resonated well beyond campus borders.
The rivalry prize, the Hardee’s Trophy in past sponsorship years, reflected state commerce, but the rivalry’s heart has taken on a new identity. The championship dreams on one side, swagger and disruption on the other. This year, however, it's all different.
Clemson makes the trip to Columbia on Saturday (Noon ET, SECN).
More college football news:
- Deion Sanders buyout, contract details as Colorado Buffaloes coach
- Ole Miss reportedly gives Lane Kiffin an ultimatum as family visits Florida and LSU
- Virginia Tech reportedly funding roster near top of ACC for James Franklin
- Bill Belichick goes viral for awkward handshake after Wake Forest loss
- Texas state trooper reportedly relieved of duties after player exchange at Texas A&M