When Clemson students opened their phones, I know many felt shock, disappointment or maybe even anger. Clemson vs. South Carolina being a noon game dissatisfied many people I spoke to. Clemson students seem to be tired of the noon games and miss the days of frequent afternoon and night games. But, it was especially concerning when two ranked, historic rivals were announced to be a noon game. The announcement followed a Clemson versus The Citadel was awarded a 3:30 p.m. time slot, a much more favored time among the student population.

With the Clemson-South Carolina game being placed in the noon slot, I view it as a slight sign of disrespect toward the deep history and current relevance of our rivalry, marking us as less important than other rivalries. For example, Florida State versus Florida received a 7 p.m. time slot, despite Florida having a record of 6-5 and FSU 2-9. So, it seems that our rivalry with South Carolina has lost national relevance and importance.

Perhaps Clemson’s recent dominance is to blame for this. Clemson holds a record of 14-8 over South Carolina since 2000 — perhaps national media doesn’t expect a game worthwhile enough for a prime time slot. Despite Clemson’s recent dominance, though, I believe a South Carolina win on rivalry weekend will create increased interest and relevance for the rivalry, benefitting both schools.

I know, hearing a Clemson fan say a South Carolina win is beneficial comes as a shock. However, there are many ways a Gamecock win over Clemson could benefit not only the school’s football program but also the students. First, an increase in competitiveness of the rivalry will create more interest, increasing ratings and profits for each of the schools. This weekend would be especially beneficial if South Carolina won because both teams are currently ranked. Secondly, it would benefit the student population as well. If the rivalry has increased importance nationally, it is more likely to be scheduled in a prime time slot, which solves the increasingly present noon game problem. Finally, the boosted ratings and profits would be able to increase investment into each football program, further improving both teams’ recruiting ability, facilities and rosters, thus leading to more competitiveness in the rivalry.

Although Clemson’s reputation would take a temporary hit — and our pride would be massively impacted by a loss — I believe a South Carolina win on rivalry weekend would create a long-term benefit for both teams.

Jack Kinder is a junior sociology major from Ocala, Florida. Jack can be reached at [email protected].