Clemson enters the matchup boasting a 40-0 record against FCS teams since the NCAA split Division I in 1978, a streak the Tigers aim to extend to 41-0 on Saturday. The program holds a historic 221-66-13 record against opponents from South Carolina and maintains a winning record against all 12 Palmetto State foes the team has faced in history.
This matchup, designated as Military Appreciation Day, holds significance for the Clemson community due to the university's origins as a military school from 1889 to 1955. The game will be played at Memorial Stadium, which honors alumni who died in military service, and will feature a flyover by two F-15s during the national anthem. The event serves as part of Clemson's ongoing commitment to competing against in-state programs.
Heading into the contest, Clemson (3-2) faces roster adjustments as two reserve defenders, tackle Devarrick Woods and end Armon Mason, are not expected to play. Woods has recorded three tackles and two quarterback pressures over four games this season, while Mason has appeared in two games with one quarterback pressure. Additionally, players Jay Haynes and Chapman Pendergrass may appear in alternate numbers of 36 and 65 respectively during the game.
Clemson returns to the field following an open date last week. Their most recent performance on Oct. 3 saw freshman quarterback Tait Reynolds throw for a career-high 295 yards against No. 4 Miami, while wide receiver Bryant Wesco Jr. recorded nine receptions for 152 yards. The Tigers now turn their focus to improving their all-time record against Charleston Southern to 2-0.