It might sound wild, but when you take a step back and really look at it, Clemson had a better overall season than South Carolina, even though the Gamecocks won the annual rivalry game. Yes, you read that right.
Sure, South Carolina fans are riding high after beating Clemson 17-14 in November, and they’ve earned their bragging rights in the Palmetto State. But when you look at the bigger picture, Clemson’s achievements outshine South Carolina’s in 2024. The Tigers finished the season with an impressive 10-4 record, clinching a spot in the College Football Playoff thanks to their ACC Championship victory. They ended the year ranked No. 11 in the Coaches Poll and No. 14 in the AP Poll, while South Carolina’s 9-4 season landed them at No. 19 in both polls. That’s a gap that has to sting for Gamecocks fans.
It’s a bit like the Michigan-Ohio State rivalry—yes, Michigan won the game, but who’s going to remember that 10 years from now? Everyone will remember that Ohio State is the 2024 National Champion. The same goes for Clemson. Beating your rival feels great, but making it to the College Football Playoff and winning a conference title is what truly defines a season.
While South Carolina didn’t win the SEC, make the Playoff, or even win their bowl game, Clemson made a statement. They dominated the ACC, went 7-1 in conference play, and earned their automatic spot in the CFP. It’s becoming the new standard in college football to make the Playoff, and Clemson did just that.
This spring, Clemson players will be rocking two rings—one for the ACC Championship and another for their College Football Playoff appearance, marking their seventh trip to the CFP in just 11 years. Meanwhile, the Gamecocks will receive a Citrus Bowl participation ring, which, while nice, doesn’t exactly compare.
When Clemson raises its ACC Championship and CFP banners in Death Valley, it’s clear who had the stronger season. The Gamecocks may have the rivalry win, but Clemson had the bigger, more impressive accomplishments.
