The Clemson Tigers and South Carolina Gamecocks compete in the 120th installment of their historic rivalry this Saturday.

Ahead of the game, Clemson players met with members of the media Monday to share what this rivalry means to the team and the state of South Carolina.

Quarterback Cade Klubnik shared his excitement to play in a hostile environment in South Carolina’s Williams-Brice stadium.

“I think that’s what makes college football college football,” Klubnik said. “You hear guys that have played college football go to the NFL and say that there’s games that were louder in college that aren’t as loud in the NFL. I think that it’s always super fun to play those types of games on the road.”

While the Tigers lead the all-time series against the Gamecocks (72-43-4), South Carolina handed Clemson a home loss in their last meeting a year ago, snapping the 40-game winning streak at Death Valley. 

Freshman safety Khalil Barnes attended last year’s loss on an official visit and shared his perspective on what this Saturday means to him after watching the last bitter defeat from the sidelines.

“(The South Carolina game) was my official visit. I kind of already knew (Clemson) was going to be home so I felt it personally when they ruined the home streak last year,” Barnes said. “So it’s definitely a rivalry game… we’re going to get their best and they’re going to get our best, it’s just one of those type of games. I for sure feel like it’s a little bit extra this week.”

Will Putnam, a four-year starter for Clemson’s offensive line, has felt both highs and lows of the rivalry in his time as a Tiger. To Putnam, Clemson’s all-time record is unimportant compared to the feeling of last year’s loss.

“It depends on who won that last game and we lost the last one. That’s very well known,” he said. “They made it known… and that’s why we’re really just looking forward to this opportunity to set the record straight.”

Unlike many South Carolina natives, offensive lineman Tristan Leigh learned the magnitude of the Palmetto State rivalry after he arrived in Clemson. The Virginia native expressed why he feels the game encompasses more than just himself.

“You get into the culture of where (it means a lot) to a lot of people,” he said. “Honestly, I think that’s great because we’re in a position to play for something bigger than ourselves. It’s a big game in South Carolina and we can make a lot of people happy on Saturday in this state. I think we all take pride in that.” 

The Tigers have their chance to repay the favor and take a home win from the Gamecocks on Saturday, when the two foes kick off at 7:30 p.m.

To honor Clemson’s special senior class Dear Old Clemson is selling footballs signed by 7 of Clemson’s Avengers for only $100.  These limited edition footballs are signed by Thomas, Orhorhoro, Davis, Mascoll, Henry, Murphy and Williams.  Get one while supplies last.