COLUMBIA, S.C. — In what might very well be his final rivalry game against South Carolina, Clemson defensive end T.J. Parker had his best statistical performance of the season.

Parker finished with a season-high three sacks in the 28-14 victory, plus two quarterback hurries, while helping the Tigers’ defense hold Gamecocks’ quarterback LaNorris Sellers in check for much of the afternoon.

His three sacks tied former Clemson standout Chester McGlockton (1990) for the most against South Carolina in program history. It was also one shy of his career-high of four set in last year’s win at Pitt.

“We didn’t get it done last year,” Parker said. “But fast forward to this year, and we handled our business,” Parker said. “We played a complete game. I am glad to take this trophy back home where it belongs.”

Being draft-eligible, Parker is going to have a decision to make, seeing as he is projected by many to be a first-round draft pick in April.

The Phenix City, Alabama native also recovered a fumble in the win, giving him a total of three this season. Will Heldt added 1.5 sacks, while Stepiylan Green had 0.5 sacks, giving the Tigers a total of five on the afternoon.

Parker and the defense also limited the Gamecocks to just 41 rushing yards on 19 carries, as the Tigers avenged last season’s last-minute home loss to Shane Beamer’s team.

“It means everything,” Parker said. “To this team, the town of Clemson, the state of South Carolina. I am glad the Clemson family is going to be super-happy this weekend the rest of the year. They can say we beat the Gamecocks.”

Parker now has five sacks and 9.5 tackles for loss on the season, but after this one, the junior defensive end wasn’t overly concerned with personal accolades. He was more proud of what this team was able to accomplish after a 3-5 start to the season.

“It starts at practice,” Parker said. “Chopping wood every day. Working on your technique, working on your fundamentals, working on your game and eventually it will work.”

Photo by Bart Boatwright