South Carolina versus Clemson. “The Battle of the Palmetto State” is the longest uninterrupted series in the south, and the second longest uninterrupted series overall, having been played every year since 1909. Clemson holds a 65-39-4 lead in the series, which dates back to 1896.
The Gamecocks have won the last two games. This rivalry is one of the best around. It divides the state and provokes emotion in the fans. Just look at on of our favorite examples in Robert Sinclair Smith took his loyalty to the grave. Bless him.
Back to the game.
This will be the fifth time both schools have entered the game ranked in the top 25 of at least one of the polls. The schools have split those four games, 2-2. This is the first time both schools enter as ranked teams since 2000.
This will be the biggest game in the history of the Clemson vs. South Carolina rivalry when it comes to combined victories for the two programs entering the game. Both schools have a 9-2 record and this is the first time both have entered the rivalry game with at least nine wins. Only once have both schools entered the game with at least eight wins and that took place in 1988 when both were 8-2 entering the game at Clemson.
Here is a preview of what it will take to win for both squads:
SOUTH CAROLINA WILL WIN IF: Their offense presents a balanced attack, meaning they cannot rely solely on running back Brandon Wilds. Quarterback Connor Shaw and the passing attack has to be effective. The Gamecocks defense has been the most consistent aspect of this year’s team, but the unit enters the rivalry game with some injury issues. South Carolina has to show why they rank fifth in the FBS in total defense (279.5 yards per game) and second against the pass (137.5). The Gamecocks held Clemson to 511 yards combined in the last two meetings. USC must pressure Clemson and contain their team speed. The Tigers’ defense has shown they are vulnerable, and South Carolina will need to capitalize off of what Clemson presents.
CLEMSON WILL WIN IF: They can win the battle in the trenches and force USC to turn the ball over. Clemson’s offensive line only allowed 18 sacks through their first ten games, but allowed six sacks to NC State alone in the embarrassing 37-13 defeat on Saturday. If Clemson can pressure USC’s Connor Shaw, then it can disrupt the flow of their scheme which likely leads to mistakes. Also CU’s Sammy Watkins has to be a game-changer.
USC should win this game due to the play of the defense. The front four of South Carolina play a key role in this game and should be able to spend a good amount of time in the Clemson backfield which will cause trouble for the Tigers. Look for USC to win 24-10.
