Football
If you’re new to Clemson, let’s start with the obvious: fall means football.
After returning to the College Football Playoff last season, the Tigers are ready to go even further this fall. Quarterback Cade Klubnik is back and better, and he’s got a full arsenal — led by All-ACC receiver Antonio Williams, the former freshman duo Bryant Wesco and T.J. Moore and towering transfer Tristan Smith.
And the defense? It features two projected top-10 picks in next year’s NFL Draft: T.J. Parker and Peter Woods.
Clemson leads the nation in returning production (81%), including 86% on offense. Add in Death Valley’s iconic energy, and you’ve got a front-row seat to one of the most electric atmospheres in college football.
Circle Aug. 30 at 7:30 p.m. on your calendar — Clemson opens the season at home against LSU. It’s a top-10 showdown, and don’t be shocked if College GameDay shows up.
Men’s soccer
Clemson men’s soccer is a national powerhouse, and they’re hungry for more hardware.
Led by head coach Mike Noonan, the Tigers have won two national titles in the last five years, and they’ll be in the mix again this fall. Sophomore sensation Ransford Gyan, the reigning ACC Freshman of the Year, is back to headline a high-octane attack.
Home games at Riggs Field are unreal. The stands are packed, the student section is wild and the team delivers. You won’t find a better fall night than one under the lights at Riggs on a Friday.
Women’s soccer
After reaching the College Cup for the first time in 2023, Clemson women’s soccer enters a new era with big-time talent.
This fall’s squad is young but dangerous. Head coach Eddie Radwanski brings in the nation’s No. 2 recruiting class, including four top-50 players. That’s the kind of foundation that builds another deep tournament run, and you can be there from day one.
Volleyball
Volleyball is on the rise behind All-ACC pin attacker Neea-Maria Joki, one of the ACC’s breakout stars from last fall. She’s back for her sophomore season and ready to lead the charge.
Head coach Jackie Kirr has brought new energy to the program, and you’ll feel it at Jervey Gym. Heading into the second year in their renovated facility, the Tigers are aiming to take a big step forward after laying the groundwork in 2024.
Tennis
This past season was a breakthrough, and it feels like just the beginning.
Both the men’s and women’s tennis teams are coming off NCAA Tournament appearances, with momentum rolling into the fall. The men, led by Noa Vukadin and the doubles team of Max Damm and Romain Gales, will be pushing for another postseason berth.
The women’s squad, powered by a revamped roster and the leadership of coach Boomer Saia, is building something real. Nine new players joined the team last year, and with another offseason under their belts, they’ll be dangerous.
Look for dual matches to heat up early in the semester. Bring some friends and catch it courtside. You’ll be surprised how electric tennis can get.
Other sports to watch
The women’s cross country team, led by Silvia Jelelgo, is fresh off a top-20 national finish. The Clemson men’s golf team made it all the way to the ACC Championship in April, losing 3-2 in match play, but look to build on last season’s successes.
On the women’s side, keep tabs on Isabella Rawl. She fired a 64 at the Clemson Invitational last spring, one of the best rounds in school history, and she’s back as the team’s top player.
The bottom line
No matter your sport, there’s a Clemson team worth following this fall. Whether it’s a sold-out night at Death Valley or a packed crowd at Historic Riggs Field, there’s nothing like being part of it. Freshman year only happens once, so make sure you’re in the stands.
