It is that time of year again. As the weather gets colder and Thanksgiving gets closer, families unite for a wholesome feast.
And yet, in the season of togetherness and giving of thanks, the fierce rivalry between Clemson University and the University of South Carolina brings a level of animosity that is not at all in tune with the November holiday. So, while football can drive us apart, let’s look at some things that Clemson and South Carolina fans can agree on this year at the dinner table:
Flames
Every year, Clemson burns a mock-up of Gamecock mascot Cocky ahead of its matchup with the Gamecocks. Likewise, a Tiger statue is burned in Columbia as South Carolina fans hope it will prevent their inevitable defeat. While the act itself is centered around tarnishing the other team’s mascot, there is a commonality: fire.
Clemson and South Carolina fans seem to unite behind the beautiful destruction of flames. The ritualistic tradition highlights mankind’s primal love for fire. At the end of the day, you can’t argue with fire.
Down with the Dawgs!
While the state of South Carolina splits for the big game, the state’s next-door neighbor, Georgia, has a common enemy: the Georgia Bulldogs. South Carolina is used to being trounced by its fellow SEC compatriots.
Clemson, however, had an atypical encounter with Georgia this year, and the Tigers quickly began to resonate with their rival.
The 12-team playoff
Since 2014, the College Football Playoff has consisted of the top four college football teams in the country, according to the committee. This year, the format was adjusted to feature the top 12 teams — an adjustment that most have taken a liking to.
South Carolina and Clemson’s simultaneous search for postseason glory has seen the southern schools welcome the expanded playoff with open arms. While both teams are on the edge of qualification, the new playoff format has brought a new dimension of hope to both fanbases.
Time to tailgate
In Clemson, Saturdays are characterized by orange and purple tents, grills and good times in the sun. Unsurprisingly, Columbia seems to celebrate Saturdays similarly.
The college football powerhouses are complemented perfectly by the die-hard fans who love to tailgate and get rowdy on the weekends.
