To say that the Clemson softball team made significant strides last season is an extreme understatement. The 2025 team accomplished more than any Clemson softball team in history. Last season, head coach John Rittman led the Tigers to their first ACC Championship, first Super Regional game and first victory over a No. 1 team, Tennessee. One may wonder if there will be more history to come for the team in 2026, and it is certainly possible.

Coming into the preseason, the Tigers landed a spot at No. 11 on the NCAA’s postseason top 25 rankings.

The team is set to face numerous tough opponents this season. Below, a handful of opponents rank as Clemson’s “must-win” games:

Florida State at home — March 27-29

As the No. 9-ranked team in the country, Florida State is arguably one of the most experienced teams, not just in the ACC, but in the entirety of Division I softball. If the Tigers can win the series at home, it would be a huge RPI boost. This series will dramatically increase both teams’ RPIs at the end of the season and potentially determine seeding for the postseason.

Oregon at the Clearwater Invitational — Feb. 6

The next team listed is the highest in the Big Ten in the NCAA’s rankings. Ranked at No. 6, Oregon will be a tough outing for the Tigers, as the Ducks made the Women’s College World Series last season.

Arkansas at the Bobcat Tournament — Feb. 15

Next, Arkansas has the potential to be a quality win for the Tigers. Arkansas is ranked No. 13 in the NCAA poll. The Razorbacks finished just outside the top 10 last season. Similarly, with the FSU series, a win would be beneficial for both teams’ RPIs.

Duke away — April 24-26

This ACC series in the regular season is intriguing for Clemson. Ranked at No. 21, Duke has been a consistent power in ACC softball for several years now — the team won the ACC Championship a few seasons ago. The Tigers must win the series to secure a strong RPI and seeding in the postseason.

South Carolina at home, away — March 25, April 14

This rivalry was a split series last season. The in-state rival Gamecocks are ranked No. 10 in the NCAA poll. It is vital that Clemson at least splits the series to keep its postseason aspirations alive and well.

Rittman and company can make another postseason appearance. If the Tigers win the majority of the games listed above and make an impressive run in the ACC tournament, they could very well host. With talented players like Macey Cintron, Julia Knowler and Marian Collins returning this season, there is room for plenty of excitement. Also, look for some transfers to make an impact, such as catcher Corri Hicks from Oklahoma or pitcher Abby Dunning from Boston College.