Tigers know rivalry match is 'not just another game'

CLEMSON ¬­-- Some of the 15th-ranked Tigers' dominance in today's rivalry might be explained by a loose confidence.

The Tigers return to Columbia today (noon, ESPN) where they have lost only twice since 1980. Clemson has won 10 of the last 12 meetings and holds a 65-37-4 edge overall.

The Tigers (8-3) seemed confident preparing for South Carolina (6-5) this week buoyed by recent success in the rivalry and a six-game win streak. The pressure might also be lessened as many of Clemson's key players are not South Carolinians, having grown up without an understanding of what many dub the state championship.

Coming from Florida, Clemson quarterback Kyle Parker admitted he was initially surprised by the ferocity of the rivalry that divides the state's 4.5 million population. Ditto for star backfield mate C.J. Spiller.

"Being from the state of Florida you get accustomed to those rivalries," said Spiller, one of 16 Floridians on the Clemson roster. "I got here and I didn't understand (the rivalry) at first. Now I understand, and I know how much it means to people."

Clemson coach Dabo Swinney also grew up out of state with other rivalries on the forefront.

"It hasn't quite had the national impact as Alabama-Auburn has had because those teams are in the same conference so it could be for the SEC championship or a higher bowl or higher ranking," Swinney said.

"But it doesn't take a backseat at all from a fan standpoint. It's a great rivalry for good old fashioned bragging rights, and it takes a backseat to nothing else I've seen."

While some note the Gamecocks have a greater motivation to win today due to bowl positioning and recent lack of success, Clemson offensive line coach Brad Scott said Clemson will be ready to play: "it's never just another game."

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