Dear Tigers,

First and foremost, a disclaimer: I was raised a Gamecock fan. My family and I have since realized the error of our ways, obviously, and have been ride or die for the Tigers thereafter.

Being from New Jersey (I know, we’ve taken over), college football was never the main focus for me. I spent my Sundays on the couch watching RedZone, but my Saturdays were relatively uneventful. I clearly remember the moment that changed: watching the 2020 National Championship between Clemson and LSU. Although we obviously know Clemson lost, I was fascinated watching the way Coach Swinney interacted with his players and the evident camaraderie between the team.

I then decided I would apply to both Clemson and South Carolina and signed up to tour both. I toured Clemson first, went back to my hotel room, canceled my appointment in Columbia and didn’t even finish my application to USC.

Since then, I have been all in on the Palmetto State rivalry. Every time I walk through campus, I’m reminded how lucky I am to go to this University, which is so rich with tradition. This is never more evident than during Rivalry Week when events like Cocky’s Funeral and the preceding Blood Bowl showcase the historically-rooted competitiveness between the schools.

I am continually impressed by the nicknames Clemson students come up with for USC and how creative the insults can get. Let’s keep that tradition alive this year (respectfully), and remember how lucky we are to be a part of the best rivalry in college football!