Clemson Dominates USC in Palmetto Bowl

Tigers Secure Fourth Straight Win Despite Disappointing Season

The Clemson Tigers closed out a rollercoaster of a regular season with a convincing 28-14 victory over their in-state rivals, the South Carolina Gamecocks, in the annual Palmetto Bowl on November 29, 2025. The win marked Clemson's fourth consecutive victory and ninth in their last 11 meetings against the Gamecocks.

Despite having no bearing on conference standings or playoff positioning, the game carried immense significance for both programs as it represented bragging rights in one of college football's most heated rivalries.

Key Moments Define Clemson's Victory

Several pivotal moments swung the momentum in Clemson's favor. Quarterback Cade Klubnik, starting his third and final game against South Carolina, delivered an impressive performance, throwing for 268 yards and a touchdown. However, it was a bizarre play that truly energized the Tigers: Klubnik fumbled in the red zone, only to see the ball roll right back to him, allowing him to pick it up and sprint for a 3-yard touchdown.

But the hero of the day was Clemson cornerback Ricardo Jones, who sealed the victory with two crucial interceptions. His second pick came at the most opportune time, with South Carolina driving down the field late in the fourth quarter. Jones snagged a deflected pass and returned it 12 yards for a touchdown, putting the game out of reach.

Statistical Dominance

While the final score reflected a relatively close game, Clemson dominated statistically. The Tigers possessed the ball for nearly twice as long as South Carolina and ran nearly three times as many plays. They outgained the Gamecocks and accumulated three times as many first downs.

Clemson's defense was particularly stifling, sacking South Carolina quarterback LaNorris Sellers five times and forcing four turnovers. The defensive effort held the Gamecocks to under 50 rushing yards, neutralizing their ground game.

"We've had 17 good plays. We've had two of the worst plays I've ever seen. Horrible. Just horrible." - Dabo Swinney, Clemson Head Coach

Disappointing Seasons for Both Programs

For Clemson, the victory provided a satisfying conclusion to a season that fell far short of expectations. The Tigers entered the year as the defending ACC champions and strong contenders for another national championship, but lost four of their first five home games, effectively ending their title hopes.

Similarly, South Carolina had high hopes after winning nine games last year and returning quarterback LaNorris Sellers. However, the Gamecocks struggled throughout the season, finishing with a 4-8 record and missing the postseason for the second time in three years.

What's Next

With the victory, Clemson secured a bowl bid, though not one of the prestigious bowl games they had hoped for when the season began. The Tigers will learn their bowl destination on December 7, 2025.

For South Carolina, the season is complete, and head coach Shane Beamer faces questions about the direction of the program moving forward.

As Dabo Swinney noted, this victory doesn't erase the disappointments of the regular season, but it does provide momentum and confidence heading into the offseason and bowl preparation.