Clemson Tigers vs South Carolina Gamecocks: Football Player Stats​

Key Takeaways from the Clemson vs South Carolina Matchup

• Final Score: Clemson defeated South Carolina 34–31 in a tightly contested Palmetto Bowl.
• Total Offense: Clemson 423 yards, South Carolina 401 yards.
• Turnovers: Clemson forced 2 takeaways that shifted field position and momentum.
• Top Performers: Clemson QB threw for 280+ yards and 2 TDs; South Carolina QB accounted for 3 total touchdowns.
• Rivalry Impact: The result strengthened Clemson’s in-state dominance and impacted bowl positioning for both teams.

Game Summary and Final Score Breakdown

The annual Palmetto Bowl once again delivered high stakes and high drama as the Clemson Tigers edged the South Carolina Gamecocks 34–31. The game featured multiple lead changes, explosive plays, and late fourth-quarter tension that reflected the intensity of this long-standing rivalry.Clemson’s balanced attack combined vertical passing with efficient red-zone execution. South Carolina countered with tempo offense and dynamic quarterback mobility. The deciding moments came in the fourth quarter, when Clemson’s defense forced a crucial turnover that led directly to a go-ahead scoring drive.

Complete Team Statistics Comparison

Stat CategoryClemsonSouth CarolinaTotal Yards423401Passing Yards284267Rushing Yards139134Turnovers12Third Down %48%41%Time of Possession31:1228:48

### What the Numbers RevealClemson’s edge came in efficiency. The Tigers converted nearly half of their third-down opportunities and protected the football more effectively. South Carolina’s yardage totals were comparable, but stalled drives and turnovers ultimately defined the difference.Time of possession also favored Clemson slightly, allowing their defense to stay fresher during critical late-game sequences.

Clemson Tigers: Individual Player Stats and Analysis

### Quarterback PerformanceClemson’s quarterback completed 24 of 34 passes for 284 yards and 2 touchdowns with 1 interception. His composure under pressure stood out, especially on third-down conversions. He spread the ball across multiple receivers, reducing predictability.Key metrics:

• Completion rate: 70%
• Yards per attempt: 8.3
• Red zone efficiency: 2 TD passes

### Rushing LeadersThe Tigers’ lead running back finished with 18 carries for 102 yards and 1 touchdown. His ability to gain positive yardage on first down kept Clemson ahead of the chains.Another contributor added 37 rushing yards on designed quarterback runs and scrambles, showcasing Clemson’s situational versatility.### Receiving StandoutsClemson’s top receiver posted:

• 7 receptions
• 108 yards
• 1 touchdown

Two additional receivers recorded 50+ yards, demonstrating depth and diversified play-calling.### Defensive Impact PlayersThe turning point came when Clemson’s linebacker forced a fumble in the fourth quarter. Defensive leaders included:

• 9 total tackles by the middle linebacker
• 2 sacks from the defensive front
• 1 interception in the second quarter

Clemson generated consistent pocket pressure without excessive blitzing, highlighting disciplined defensive scheming.

South Carolina Gamecocks: Individual Player Stats and Analysis

### Quarterback BreakdownSouth Carolina’s quarterback delivered a competitive performance, finishing 22 of 36 for 267 passing yards and 2 touchdowns. He also added 64 rushing yards and a rushing touchdown, accounting for three total scores.Key strengths:

• Escapability against pass rush
• Deep accuracy on boundary throws
• Red zone decision-making

However, one late-game interception proved costly and shifted momentum.### Rushing ProductionThe Gamecocks’ primary running back tallied 83 yards on 17 carries. While explosive at times, Clemson’s front seven limited breakaway runs and forced third-and-medium scenarios.### Receiving LeadersSouth Carolina’s top wide receiver produced 6 catches for 96 yards and a touchdown. A tight end contributed 58 yards and played a key role on third downs.The Gamecocks spread targets effectively, but separation consistency waned late in the fourth quarter under defensive pressure.### Defensive LeadersOn defense, South Carolina logged:

• 10 tackles by a senior linebacker
• 1 interception
• 3 sacks total

Despite respectable pressure numbers, missed tackles in space allowed Clemson to extend pivotal drives.

Key Plays and Turning Points

Several sequences defined the game:

1. Second Quarter Interception: Clemson capitalized with a touchdown immediately after.
2. Third Quarter Goal-Line Stand: South Carolina limited Clemson to a field goal, preserving momentum.
3. Fourth Quarter Forced Fumble: Clemson converted the takeaway into the decisive touchdown drive.

Each rivalry matchup often hinges on two or three pivotal snaps. This year’s contest was no exception.

Year-Over-Year Player and Team Trends

Beyond the box score, broader rivalry trends offer deeper context.### Offensive EvolutionOver recent seasons:

• Clemson has averaged 30+ points in four of the last five meetings.
• South Carolina has narrowed the total yardage gap compared to earlier matchups.
• Quarterback mobility has become increasingly central for both programs.

Clemson’s offensive identity has shifted toward balanced distribution, while South Carolina has emphasized tempo and dual-threat quarterback dynamics.### Defensive AdjustmentsClemson historically held the Gamecocks under 25 points in multiple consecutive meetings prior to this recent surge. South Carolina’s improved offensive efficiency reflects recruiting upgrades and scheme adjustments.

Strategic Breakdown: Coaching Decisions That Mattered

Coaching strategy shaped the game in critical ways.

• Fourth-Down Decisions: Clemson opted for an aggressive fourth-down conversion early, extending a scoring drive.
• Clock Management: Late-game clock control preserved Clemson’s lead.
• Defensive Containment: Clemson assigned a spy defender to limit quarterback scrambles.
• Tempo Adjustment: South Carolina increased play speed in the second half to offset pass rush pressure.

These tactical nuances often go unnoticed in standard box score summaries but significantly influence outcomes.

Impact on Season Standings and Bowl Implications

The Palmetto Bowl traditionally carries emotional weight, but it also affects postseason positioning.For Clemson:

• Strengthened bowl placement credentials
• Reinforced in-state recruiting narrative

For South Carolina:

• Bowl eligibility pressure intensified
• Valuable late-season performance data heading into conference play

Rivalry victories frequently serve as momentum catalysts entering bowl season.

Palmetto Bowl Rivalry Context

The Clemson vs South Carolina rivalry dates back more than a century and remains one of college football’s most passionate in-state matchups. The intensity stems from:

• Recruiting competition within South Carolina
• Contrasting conference affiliations
• Geographic proximity
• Generational fan loyalty

Recent meetings have been closer than earlier one-sided stretches, signaling a competitive resurgence.

Advanced Metrics Snapshot

For analytical depth, advanced indicators demonstrate why Clemson prevailed:

• Yards per Play: Clemson 6.1, South Carolina 5.6
• Red Zone TD Rate: Clemson 75%, South Carolina 60%
• Explosive Plays: Clemson 6 plays of 20+ yards
• Pressure Rate: Clemson defense disrupted 32% of dropbacks

Efficiency metrics align closely with the final score margin.

Player Comparison: Head-to-Head Statistical Leaders

CategoryClemson LeaderSouth Carolina LeaderPassing Yards284267Rushing Yards10283Receiving Yards10896Total Tackles910

This direct comparison highlights how evenly matched both rosters were, underscoring why turnovers and red-zone efficiency became decisive factors.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Clemson vs South Carolina Game

What was the final score of the Clemson vs South Carolina game?

The final score was Clemson 34, South Carolina 31 in a close Palmetto Bowl matchup.

What were the key stats that decided the Clemson vs South Carolina game?

You see the difference in turnovers, third-down efficiency, and red zone scoring. Clemson won the turnover battle 2–1, converted 48% of third downs, and finished more drives with touchdowns.

How did Clemson’s quarterback perform in the game?

Clemson’s quarterback threw for 284 yards and 2 touchdowns with a 70% completion rate, guiding a balanced passing attack and key third-down conversions.

How did South Carolina’s quarterback impact the game?

South Carolina’s quarterback passed for 267 yards and 2 touchdowns and ran for 64 yards and another score, but a late interception hurt the Gamecocks’ comeback chances.

Why was the fourth-quarter turnover so important?

Clemson’s forced fumble in the fourth quarter flipped field position, set up a go-ahead touchdown drive, and shifted momentum in a three-point game.

How does this game affect Clemson and South Carolina’s seasons?

For Clemson, the win boosts bowl positioning and in-state recruiting appeal. For South Carolina, the loss adds pressure for bowl eligibility but still offers useful late-season data.