COLUMBIA, SC (WIS) – The state’s most exciting rivalry returns Saturday with some of the highest stakes in recent memory; for both teams.

Although the game started strong; A fumble stopped the Gamecock’s opening drive.

Cade Klubnik was involved in dealing early in the game. The junior quarterback distributed the ball and made three explosive plays early in the Palmetto Bowl.

While both offenses managed to break down the field, the defenses held their own. They ended in a 0-0 draw in the first quarter.

At the beginning of the second, Klubnik called his own number. After several big pass plays, the junior quarterback ran 20 yards to the end zone to give the Tigers a 7-0 lead.

Sellers and the Gamecocks responded. On the next drive, Sellers dodged several sacks before going for a touchdown of his own.

In the first half, both defensive lines were at full speed, so the score was 7:7 at halftime.

STORY FROM TAPE

While the Palmetto Bowl is always considered one of the premier rivalries in college football, this year’s game may be one of the best ever.

South Carolina is ranked No. 16 and Clemson is No. 12 in the latest AP college football poll. This is the seventh time both schools have been ranked for the biggest game of the regular season.

This is also the first time since 2013 that both teams have been ranked before the game.

The Gamecocks are 5-1 in these ranked games, including three straight from 2011 to 2013. of these games.

While Clemson is seeking its 20th 10-win season in program history, USC is seeking its first 9-win season since 2017.

DEFENSE/OFFENSE

Much of the game will depend on how South Carolina’s defense will be able to contain the weapons for the Tigers.

While the Gamecock offense features a star duo of Raheim Sanders and LaNorris Sellers, Clemson is led by its own QB/RB duo.

Cade Klubnik and Phil Mafah have set the tone for the Tigers all season. Klubnik is coming off an impressive season, ranking third in the country in passing touchdowns (second in the ACC) while throwing just four interceptions.

Mafah ranks fourth in the ACC with 1,012 rushing yards while scoring eight points on the ground.

While South Carolina has an overall balanced defense, they will have to rely on their front four to hold the front line and put pressure on one of the best quarterbacks they will face this season.

While the Tigers’ leading receiver, Antonio Williams, has fewer than 700 yards receiving, the sophomore is tied for first in the ACC with 10 receiving touchdowns. Clemson also distributes the ball; Four players have rushed for at least 400 yards this season. Bryant Wesco Jr., TJ Moore and Jake Briningstool are all names the Gamecock secondary needs to keep an eye on.

Redshirt freshman Lanorris Sellers will make his first start in the Palmetto Bowl on Saturday.

Sellers have been one of the main catalysts for Gamecocks’ turnaround over the last five games. The quarterback threw 13 touchdowns and two interceptions during the five-game winning streak.

IMPACT ON THE PLAYOFFS?

Clemson has a chance to make the playoffs again after missing the last three seasons. The Tigers advance to the ACC Championship Game if Miami loses to Syracuse on Saturday. If that happens and Clemson beats SMU and wins the ACC title, they would clinch a playoff spot.

If they beat Carolina and don’t make it to the conference championship game, they would need help to get into the playoffs.

While South Carolina’s playoff chances are slim, a win against another ranked opponent gives the Gamecocks a chance at a major bowl game.

If Clemson still manages to win the ACC Championship after a loss to Carolina, a playoff spot could be in the running for the Gamecocks; although many more pieces still need to fall.

Kickoff for the Palmetto Bowl is scheduled for noon and will air on ESPN.

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