Your Ultimate Guide to the Clemson Football Schedule: Follow the Tigers This Season
Introduction
If you’re a fan of college football—or just starting to be—there’s one thing that gets everyone excited each year: the Clemson football schedule. Whether you’re a student, a parent, or a lifelong Tiger supporter, knowing when and where Clemson plays is a must.
College football is more than just a sport in Clemson, South Carolina. It’s a tradition full of pride, tailgates, orange gear, and game-day cheers. Planning around the Clemson football schedule helps you stay connected with the team from Week 1 all the way to playoffs—or even a national championship run.
This article is your easy, friendly guide to everything you need to know: key matchups, home games, road challenges, fun facts, and more. So grab your orange and purple, and let’s get ready to follow the Tigers this season!
What Is the Clemson Football Schedule?
The Clemson football schedule shows all the games the Tigers will play during the year. It includes dates, times, opponents, and where each game happens—either at home in Memorial Stadium (also called “Death Valley”) or on the road.
Most schedules come out months before the season starts, so fans can plan ahead. You’ll see matchups against Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) teams and a few non-conference games, too. It tells you everything you need: when to block off your Saturdays, what weekend to travel, and which games are must-watch.
Each year, the schedule changes depending on when and where Clemson plays certain teams. That’s part of what makes following it fun. You never know what twists the season may bring!
Home Games at Death Valley: A Clemson Tradition
One of the best parts of the Clemson football schedule is the home games in Death Valley. If you’ve ever been there, you know it’s an experience like no other. The crowd roars, the band plays loudly, and the players run down the hill in a tradition called “The Most Exciting 25 Seconds in College Football.”
Memorial Stadium gets packed with over 80,000 fans dressed in orange, all cheering on the Tigers. Home games are filled with tailgates, family fun, trophies on display, and chants of “Go Tigers!”
Some of this season’s key home games could include ACC rivals like Florida State or North Carolina. These matchups mean heavy crowds, intense energy, and big stakes. If you’ve never been to a game in Death Valley, this is your year to go!
Clemson’s Away Games: Road Challenges
Every season, part of the Clemson football schedule includes a group of away games. These are played on the opponent’s turf and can be tough. Traveling affects players, weather might change suddenly, and the crowd noise isn’t friendly.
But that’s part of the challenge—and part of the fun for fans who travel. Whether Clemson is going to Notre Dame, South Carolina, or a key ACC school like NC State, road games test the team’s strength and focus.
Many fans follow the Tigers city-to-city, making away games feel a little like home. If you can’t travel, you can still follow the games on TV or online. Away games may not be in orange territory, but Clemson’s spirit always travels well.
Key Dates to Mark on Your Calendar
When you look at the full Clemson football schedule, a few dates always stand out. These are the can’t-miss, high-energy games you’ll definitely want to circle.
Here are a few types of games to keep an eye on:
- Season Opener: The very first game of the season sets the tone.
- First ACC Game: This one is always important for conference standings.
- Homecoming Game: Fans return for celebrations, events, and of course, football.
- Final Home Game: Often honors seniors and is filled with emotion.
These games often get more audience attention on TV and may come with extra media buzz or chances to make a statement in the playoff race.
Rivalry Games: The Most Intense Matchups
Clemson football fans know that some games mean more than others. Rivalries bring out real excitement—and sometimes nerves. One of the most famous rivalries in the Clemson football schedule is against South Carolina, known as the Palmetto Bowl.
This is more than just a football game. It’s bragging rights for the entire state! The game often falls on Thanksgiving weekend, making it a must-see event for families across South Carolina.
Another rivalry fans love is against Florida State, often the toughest ACC opponent. These high-stakes games can decide who dominates the conference for the year. If Clemson wins, it can boost their ranking and help with playoff chances.
Game Times and TV Listings
Knowing game dates is helpful, but it’s also important to know when and where to watch. The Clemson football schedule includes kickoff times and which channel or streaming platform will show the game.
Most Clemson games are on:
- ABC
- ESPN
- ACC Network
- CBS
- Streaming platforms like ESPN+, Hulu Live, and YouTube TV
Kickoff times can change based on weather or TV needs, so check weekly updates. Some games are early in the day (noon kickoff), while others are primetime night games under the lights!
Set reminders or alarms so you’re always ready. Many fans like to host watch parties, and knowing exact start times helps you prepare snacks, drinks, and that perfect game-day outfit.
Tailgating on Game Day
One thing fans love about the Clemson football schedule? Game day tailgates! Before each home game, the parking lots at Clemson are packed with fans grilling, dancing, and spending time with friends and family.
Tailgating is more than just eating—it’s a tradition that starts hours before kickoff. People bring tents, music, footballs, and tons of orange gear. Some even bring full TVs set up outside to watch other games while waiting!
If you’re going to a home game this year, plan to arrive early. The best spots fill quickly, and the fun starts long before players run down the hill. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen for daytime games and blankets for evening matchups later in the season.
Weather and Season Changes
Clemson football season runs from late summer to early winter. That means the weather changes a LOT across the schedule. Early games can be hot and sunny. By November, expect chilly winds and maybe even cold rain.
It’s smart to check the forecast before each game. Dress for the weather and stay comfortable so you can enjoy every moment. For home games, bring sunglasses or ponchos, depending on the forecast. For away games, layers are your best friend.
From shorts and T-shirts to hats and gloves, the Clemson football schedule brings all seasons of fashion!
College Football Playoff and Bowl Game Buzz
If Clemson has a strong season, they might make it to a bowl game or even the College Football Playoff. These games happen after the regular season ends and often include top-ranked teams from across the country.
The nicer the record, the better the game Clemson gets invited to. Think Peach Bowl, Orange Bowl, or Cotton Bowl. If things go perfectly? It could be a trip to the national championship game!
While bowl games aren’t listed on the early Clemson football schedule, they are key parts of the season. Fans should watch ranking updates each week to see where Clemson stands. These games mean more exposure, more fun, and a shot at making history.
How to Stay Updated All Season Long
Schedules sometimes change. Game times get moved. Weather might delay a kickoff. That’s why it helps to stay updated all season. Here’s how:
- Download the official Clemson Tigers app
- Follow @ClemsonFB on Twitter or Facebook
- Subscribe to game-day alerts
- Use ACC’s official website
These tools give you real-time updates, ticket alerts, and fast changes to the schedule. If a game gets moved or weather shifts plans, you’ll be the first to know.
Being informed helps you enjoy the season without stress or surprises.
FAQs
1. How many games are on the Clemson football schedule each season?
Usually 12 regular-season games, including ACC matchups and non-conference games. Postseason games can add 1–3 more if Clemson qualifies.
2. Where can I find the full Clemson football schedule?
Check the official Clemson athletics website, follow them on social media, or download the team app.
3. How do I watch Clemson football if I don’t live nearby?
Use channels like ESPN, ABC, or ACC Network. You can also stream on YouTube TV, Hulu Live, or ESPN+.
4. How early should I arrive for a home game?
Plan to arrive 3–4 hours early for tailgating or finding parking. Gates open about 90 minutes before kickoff.
5. Does Clemson always play South Carolina?
Yes! It’s a yearly rivalry game called the Palmetto Bowl. It’s usually the last game of the regular season.
6. Are Clemson football tickets hard to get?
Yes, especially for big games. Buy early through the official site or verified resellers—and beware of ticket scams.
Conclusion
Following the Clemson football schedule isn’t just about knowing dates. It’s about being part of the community, feeling the excitement, and standing behind one of the top teams in college football.
Whether you’re heading to Death Valley, watching from home, or checking updates on your phone—every game is a new chapter in the Clemson story. From big rivalries to playoff hopes, this season holds a lot of promise.
So wear your orange with pride, follow the Tigers week by week, and enjoy every moment. Go Tigers!
