Clemson Tops Rival South Carolina in Chippy Matchup

Tigers' defense shuts down Gamecocks' offense in 28-14 victory

Apr. 11, 2026 at 6:35pm

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A fractured, multi-perspective painting in the style of Pablo Picasso, breaking a football game down into sharp, overlapping geometric planes of orange, purple, and teal. Players' bodies are reduced to angular, abstracted forms.The heated rivalry between Clemson and South Carolina is captured in a cubist-inspired illustration that deconstructs the action on the field into a dynamic, geometric display of athletic intensity.Columbia Today

In a heated rivalry game marked by emotions running high, the Clemson Tigers defeated the South Carolina Gamecocks 28-14 in Columbia. Clemson's defense was the star of the day, holding the Gamecocks to just 41 rushing yards and forcing four turnovers, including a key pick-six by Ricardo Jones that sealed the victory. Quarterback Cade Klubnik had an up-and-down performance for the Tigers, but running back Adam Randall provided a steady ground game with 102 yards. The win gives Clemson its sixth straight victory over its in-state rival.

Why it matters

This rivalry game carries enormous significance for both fan bases, and Clemson's continued dominance in Columbia is a point of pride for Tigers supporters. While Clemson's overall season has been disappointing, this win helps salvage some of the year and provides a morale boost heading into the offseason.

The details

Clemson's defense was the driving force behind the victory, sacking South Carolina quarterback LaNorris Sellers five times and limiting the Gamecocks' offense throughout the game. Ricardo Jones had two key interceptions, including a pick-six in the fourth quarter that put the game out of reach. On offense, Klubnik had some shaky moments but Randall's strong running helped the Tigers control the clock and tempo. Clemson also got a pair of field goals from Nolan Hauser to provide some cushion.

  • Clemson took a 14-7 lead with 5:48 left in the second quarter on a touchdown run by Klubnik.
  • South Carolina tied the game at 14-14 just before halftime on a 74-yard touchdown pass from Sellers to Vandrevius Jacobs.
  • Clemson regained the lead 17-14 with a field goal from Hauser right before halftime.
  • Hauser added another field goal in the third quarter to make it 20-14 Clemson.
  • Jones' pick-six in the fourth quarter extended Clemson's lead to 28-14 and sealed the victory.

The players

Ricardo Jones

Clemson defensive back who had two key interceptions, including a pick-six, to lead the Tigers' defensive effort.

Cade Klubnik

Clemson's starting quarterback, who threw for 268 yards and had a rushing touchdown despite an uneven performance.

Adam Randall

Clemson running back who rushed for 102 yards on 24 carries, providing a physical presence in the ground game.

LaNorris Sellers

South Carolina's starting quarterback, who was held in check by Clemson's defense, finishing with just 2 rushing yards.

Dabo Swinney

Clemson's head coach, who improved his record against South Carolina to 10-7 with the victory.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.