The Clash of the Titans...South Carolina Gamecocks vs Clemson Tigers

Entering rivalry week, reigning state champ South Carolina holds that distinction with an 8-3 record, division title and what Swinney calls the most “balanced offense” Clemson has faced this season. USC has freshman sensation Marcus Lattimore at running back and star Alshon Jeffery at receiver. Both players have gone over 1,000 yards from scrimmage with three games to play. Jeffery has 1,210 receiving yards this season, and his 6-foot-4 and 230-pound frame will give Clemson’s defensive backs trouble. Lattimore has 1,066 rushing yards (5.1 ypc.) and has scored 19 touchdowns. His balance, vision and power will test a Clemson defense that has improved against the run this season.

A win against the SEC East champs would alter perception, create momentum heading into the offseason and allow Clemson coach Dabo Swinney to salvage something from a season littered with more disappointments than successes.

"It’s always a huge, huge game," Swinney said."“Playing in a state championship game is all the focus you’ll ever need."

"It’s about trying to be the dominant team in the state."