Your wedding day. Without a doubt, it's one of the most significant events you will ever experience - when you and the love of your life officially seal the deal and get married. On this day, your friends and family will gather to celebrate the next step in your life. Photographers will be running around snapping photos, catering plates delicious food for guests to enjoy, and the DJ sets the mood for a night of fun and libation. You've worked extra hard to make everything look perfect and run smoothly. You have examined every moving part down to the tiniest detail. At the center of all your effort is your wedding venue in Clemson, SC.
Your event space can mean the difference between an unforgettable event and an average occasion. Capturing your uniqueness as a couple is paramount to a memorable wedding. But, without the right venue location and staff, your unforgettable event can turn into a painfully average occasion. Fortunately, at Abney Hall, you won't ever have to worry about dingy reception spaces and crummy chow halls.
Constructed in Clemson, SC, in 1962, Abney Hall is 15,000 square feet and sits on 500 acres of land, making it a large wedding venue unlike any other. Abney Hall was originally the home of Mrs. Josephine Abney, a Clemson native who was a lifelong philanthropist. Mrs. Abney devoted much of her time and effort towards supporting charities, educational institutions, hospitals, and other noble efforts. Today, Abney Hall stands tall as a symbol of love, both in our community and for the couples who choose to get married here.
Abney Hall is an exclusive event experience unlike any other, surrounded by verdant forests and sparkling ponds. Our venue is a natural fit for several occasions, including:
The beginning of your life starts at Abney Hall. With our team by your side, we can create the fairy tale wedding you have dreamed about since childhood. Whether you have 100 guests or 1,000, our waterfront ceremony locations and French-inspired courtyard are perfect for your big day. Celebrate in luxurious style surrounded by shady magnolia trees, a private forest, large ponds, and the beauty of Mother Nature. While our venue location and aesthetic have been praised far and wide, so too have the practical aspects of Abney Hall. Looking for a relaxing, comfortable spot for your bridal party to get ready in? We offer an entire floor in the Abney Hall residence to get the bridal party ready. Want to make your groomsman feel extra-special too? We've got a private, plush house just feet from a sparkling pond that is a proper hangout spot for the guys in your group.
To make life easier on you, we also offer Abney Hall as your go-to spot for rehearsal dinners. Why book an expensive restaurant or travel to another location when unmatched beauty and convenience are right at your fingertips? Abney Hall is just the place for that very important dinner the night before your big day. We are also happy to host your bridal shower at Abney Hall. Our venue makes for one of Clemson's most unique bridal shower settings, where your family and friends can gather to give gifts and be merry before you walk down the aisle.
With such a large, magnificent house and a vast property, Abney Hall also makes for an unforgettable location for your bridal portraits and other wedding-related photography needs. Don't take our word for it - book a tour and see for yourself why so many new brides and grooms choose Abney Hall as their wedding venue in Clemson.
You've already found the person you want to spend the rest of your life beside. The next step? Finding the perfect wedding venue for your ceremony, reception, and celebration of your lifelong commitment to one another. Remember, the backdrop for photos, dancing, eating, and all other activities will be at your wedding venue. That's why we work so hard to set Abney Hall apart from our competitors - so you and your guests can focus on love and living your new life while we work with your vendors and photographers to make your magic night a reality.
Here are just a few reasons why guests choose Abney Hall as their wedding venue in Clemson, SC, along with some helpful tips from our experienced wedding venue staff:
Choosing the appropriate-sied venue for your desired guest count is a critical decision. A venue's capacity affects the number of people you need to consider having at your ceremony and reception. As you're first starting out, we recommend having a guest count in mind as you're searching for the right venue. Try to stick with that number. You may fall in love with a particular venue, but if its max capacity can't accommodate your guest count, it may be time to cross them off your list.
Keep in mind that this is your big day. You shouldn't feel obligated to invite the college roommate you shared a dorm with for one semester. At the end of the day, your wedding venue should be one that can accommodate those closest to you. Abney Hall is equipped for both small and large weddings, consisting of 500 acres of forest, ponds, and lush natural beauty. Whether you want an intimate wedding with only your best friends or a grand ceremony with hundreds of people, we have the right amount of room to make you comfortable.
On your big day, you're likely to have friends and family traveling in from other parts of the state or country. These folks will need a place to stay during and even after your wedding. Accessibility and ease are important factors when it comes to choosing your wedding venue for both you and your guests.
Located in Clemson, SC, Abney Hall is situated in a memorable, natural setting, giving your wedding a private vibe in the midst of Mother Nature. While we pride ourselves on having a secluded wedding event space, our venue is within an easy driving distance of hotels and vacation rentals.
When you contact us for a tour, make sure to speak with our experienced venue manager about nearby hotels and shuttle service options. We understand that your guest's comfort and convenience are important, and we're happy to work with you to figure out the best way to get your guests to Abney Hall.
At Abney Hall, our staff has earned its reputation as one of the industry's most friendly, accessible teams. We will provide you with a purpose-minded point of contact that can help answer questions relating to timelines, preferred vendors, and every aspect of your wedding. When you tour our wedding venue in Clemson, SC, for the first time, we want you to feel like you have all the information you need to make an informed purchasing decision.
At Abney Hall, our goal is to be your first resource when it comes to setting up and coordinating the details of your wedding day.
When it comes to your wedding's decor, you probably already have a few ideas in mind. We love it when our brides and grooms have a vision in mind because one of our greatest joys is turning that vision into a reality. At Abney Hall, our team is available to help you and your decorator fit, accent, and accommodate your fairy-tale wedding - whatever that may be.
Are you looking to dress up your wedding with decorations galore? Just want to add a few accents that tie into your preferred color palette? Abney Hall is versatile and ready to help however we are able.
If you're thinking about bringing in your own greenery, lighting, floral pieces, and more, we recommend discussing your vision with us on your initial tour of our event space. That way, we can get a head start on making your big day exactly how you envision it.
10 years from now, when you and your spouse are celebrating your anniversary, you will pull out photographs from your wedding and will reminisce about the unforgettable time you spent at Abney Hall. Your wedding photos will be with you forever, and as such, we work closely with you and your photographer to suggest extra-special photo op spots that you can only find on Abney Hall grounds.
From the grand staircase and French-inspired courtyard to our manicured gardens and lovely pond, there is no shortage of photo-op locations for your photographer to choose from. As one of the most popular wedding venues in Clemson, SC, we have worked with dozens of photographers over the years.
Our experience has allowed us to cultivate a list of preferred photographers - all of whom have the talent to take your pictures to the next level in a setting they're familiar with. We encourage you to check out our gallery to get a sense of the scope of our wedding venue and gain inspiration from other happy couples.
The gallery on our website is extensive but be sure to check out our Facebook and Instagram pages as well. We keep our social pages updated with recent wedding photographs, giving you an incredible resource that you can use for your own photography purposes.
Abney Hall is known across the United States for our stunning weddings, but we also play host to some of the largest corporate events in South Carolina. Why choose a bland, lifeless meeting space when you can enjoy the beauty of Mother Nature coupled with a professional atmosphere? If you have an important team-building event or corporate conference that you have to coordinate, look no further than Abney Hall.
The epitome of class and style, our corporate event space is large, lavish, and chock-full of onsite amenities for you and your co-workers to enjoy. If your team needs a morale boost, don't bring them to the local Olive Garden for a cheap lunch. Treat them to a refreshing experience in our main dining room, where we can work with you to incorporate your catering options with the goals of your event.
When the hard work is done, and your team needs a breather, what better way to relax than with a quick dip in our pool? To burn off a little steam, head over to our brand-new tennis court - the perfect place to get some exercise in an ultra-private setting while you enjoy the sights and sounds of nature. Don't forget to bring your fishing poles for a couple of hours of fishing. There's even an opportunity to go hunting if you wish.
If you're ready to learn more about Abney Hall as your wedding venue, don't hesitate to reach out. We would love to hear more about your plans, your vision, and your needs. We know that planning a wedding isn't easy. It takes time, attention to detail, and a whole lot of patience. Our goal is to help provide you with all the info you need to learn more about our venue. Once you decide on a date, we'll work closely with you and your vendors to craft a wedding experience that you will treasure for the rest of your life.
Our available dates for your big day are going quick, especially during peak seasons like spring and fall. We look forward to hearing from you soon!
Contact us today for a FREE initial consultationThe state of South Carolina is renowned for its beautiful national park sites, some of the many Carolina beach towns with Myrtle Beach vibes, and ...
The state of South Carolina is renowned for its beautiful national park sites, some of the many Carolina beach towns with Myrtle Beach vibes, and Charleston, the southern city that travelers keep voting the best in the US. There are also a number of small towns in the Blue Ridge Mountains perfect for a weekend retreat that happen to be in South Carolina, and one of them is also among the best college towns in America.
Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Clemson, South Carolina, is a small town with a big personality. While the town is famous for its lively college-town atmosphere, Clemson is more than just a hub for academics and athletics; the town offers a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant, warm hospitality that will keep any visitor coming back for more.
Clemson's unique character is rooted in its ability to balance vibrancy with tranquility, offering something for everyone who steps into its community. Whether exploring its lush surroundings, immersing yourself in the local culture, or simply enjoying the town and all it has to offer, Clemson stands out as not only a small-town gem but as America's best small college town.
Choosing an adorable small town for your college experience in North Carolina will offer more than lecture hall excitement.
Clemson's allure lies in its dynamic mix of scenic landscapes and a lively, tight-knit community. The town is enveloped by the Blue Ridge Mountains, with Sassafras Mountain, South Carolina's highest peak, less than an hour from the town. The shimmering Lake Hartwell also adds to the town's natural splendor. These surroundings provide a playground for outdoor enthusiasts while offering a tranquil escape for visitors seeking relaxation.
As a college town, home to Clemson University, Clemson is brimming with youthful energy. Game days at Memorial Stadium create an electric atmosphere, while Clemson's Patrick Square bustles with lively cafés, bars, and events.
Beyond this liveliness, Clemson maintains a welcoming, small-town vibe. The friendliness of the locals is consistently noted, many of whom are passionate about sharing their love for the town and its traditions.
Clemson isn't just a haven for nature and sports lovers; its cultural depth is equally as drawing, with art galleries, performance spaces, and historical landmarks showcasing the town's rich history and local talent. No matter the reason for a visit, Clemson offers visitors an experience that will stay with them long after they leave.
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Clemson boasts a variety of landmarks and attractions that reflect its unique charm and character. From scenic spots that highlight the area's natural beauty to historical sites that tell the story of Clemson and activities for visitors to immerse themselves in the college-town vibe, this community offers experiences that capture the heart and spirit of this vibrant town.
Clemson's location is a gift to nature lovers, with countless opportunities to explore its natural surroundings.
The Clemson Experimental Forest is a sprawling 17,000-acre preserve, used by the University to learn about environmental stability, biodiversity, and life sciences, and also offers a lot for visitors, boasting a number of trails for hiking and wildlife observation. The forest's diverse landscapes, from dense woods to serene streams, make it a haven for adventurers and photographers alike.
Lake Hartwell, one of the Southeast's largest man-made lakes and the northern arm of which borders Clemson University, is another major draw. With its expansive waters, it is a great place to enjoy swimming and boating.
While swimming is allowed in Lake Hartwell, there are no lifeguards or designated swimming areas, so swimmers should take great care.
The South Carolina Botanical Garden is a peaceful retreat where visitors can meander through nature trails, gaze at natural statues, and explore themed gardens such as:
Located on Clemson University's campus, this 295-acre garden is a tranquil spot to relax and soak in the area's natural beauty. The Botanical Garden is free to visit and open all year round.
Clemson University's influence extends far beyond academics; it's the heartbeat of the town. No visit to Clemson is complete without experiencing the electric energy of Memorial Stadium, affectionately known as Death Valley.
On game days, the stadium roars with the cheers of devoted fans as the Clemson Tigers undertake their iconic entrance down "The Hill" and take to the field.
Tillman Hall and Bowman Field are other highlights on campus. Tillman Hall's iconic clock tower is a landmark of the town, while Bowman Field is a gathering spot for students and visitors alike.
Clemson's past is deeply intertwined with its present, and history buffs will find plenty to explore. Fort Hill, the former home of statesman John C. Calhoun and later, Thomas Green Clemson, the founder of the university, is a preserved plantation house that offers insight into 19th-century Southern life. The museum features period furnishings, artifacts, and educational exhibits that shed light on the region's history.
Another historical gem is Hanover House. Built in 1716 for French Huguenot Paul de St. Julian in Berkeley County, the house was later moved to Clemson and today, visitors can tour the building, which features antiques and period artifacts and provides an insight into a bygone era.
Visitors can take a guided tour of both these historical houses, located on the University Campus, which bring the history to life.
Historical House | Opening Times | Cost |
Fort Hill | Free but a donation is suggested: | |
Hanover House | Free but a donation is suggested: |
Because these historical houses are located on campus, they are closed during university holidays, home football game days, special events, staff training, conferences, and holidays. Those wanting to tour one of these historical buildings should check online for up-to-date information before visiting.
Clemson's dining scene is as dynamic and welcoming as the town itself, offering a range of options to satisfy any craving. For a relaxed and iconic experience, The Esso Club is a must-visit. Originally a gas station, this beloved sports bar has become a local institution, celebrated for its hearty menu and lively game-day atmosphere.
For those seeking a more refined culinary experience, visitors can head to Rick Erwin's. Known for its delicious steaks and seasonal entrées, Rick Erwin's combines fine-dining food with exceptional service, providing not just mouth-watering dishes, but a truly memorable experience.
Another local favorite is Delish Sisters. Located in The Shepard Hotel in Downtown Clemson, Delish Sisters, along with the hotel, employ individuals with disabilities, providing opportunities for their staff and delicious food for their diners. With an amazing breakfast, lunch, and dinner service, as well as tasty pastries and warming coffee, Delish Sisters has become a treasure of Clemson's community and a must-visit for any hungry traveler.
Whether looking for comfort food or innovative flavors, Clemson's diverse dining options make each visit a culinary adventure worth savoring.
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Clemson's charm changes with the seasons, making it a delightful destination year-round. Each season of the year offers unique opportunities to enjoy everything this vibrant town has to offer.
In spring, Clemson comes alive with blooming flowers and mild weather, making it the perfect time to explore outdoor attractions. The Clemson Experimental Forest and the South Carolina Botanical Garden are vibrant with color, inviting visitors to hike, stroll, or simply relax in nature.
Summer in Clemson is the perfect time to enjoy the lake and take advantage of its swimming, boating, and fishing opportunities. The longer days and warm weather also make it a great time to enjoy events such as Clemson's Farmers' Market and outdoor dining.
Fall is Clemson's crowning glory. The cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage make it an ideal time for hiking or just soaking in the beauty of the town during this colorful season. Fall also marks the start of football season, when the town comes alive with tailgates, Tiger Pride, and the unmistakable buzz of game day at Memorial Stadium.
Winter in Clemson is quieter but no less enchanting. The town's festive decorations and cozy cafés create a magical atmosphere. It's a time to slow down and enjoy the tranquility of the area.
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Clemson, South Carolina is more than just a college town. It's a community steeped in history, natural beauty, and activities that cater to every interest.
Whether cheering on the Tigers, exploring the great outdoors, or simply soaking in the town's friendly, vibrant vibe, a visit to the best small college town in the US, found in the Blue Ridge Mountains' foothills, will capture the heart of any traveler and beckon them back for more.
COLUMBIA, S.C. (South Carolina Athletics) - University of South Carolina head football coach Shane Beamer is one of nine coaches selected as finalists for the 2024 Eddie Robinson Coach of the Year Award, the Football Writers Association of America (FWAA) in conjunction with the Allstate Sugar Bowl announced today.The finalists in alphabetical order are: Shane Beamer, South Carolina; Curt Cignetti, Indiana; Spencer Danielson, Boise State; Kenny Dillingham, Arizona State; Marcus Freeman, Notre Dame; Dan Lanning, Oregon; Rhett Lashlee, S...
COLUMBIA, S.C. (South Carolina Athletics) - University of South Carolina head football coach Shane Beamer is one of nine coaches selected as finalists for the 2024 Eddie Robinson Coach of the Year Award, the Football Writers Association of America (FWAA) in conjunction with the Allstate Sugar Bowl announced today.
The finalists in alphabetical order are: Shane Beamer, South Carolina; Curt Cignetti, Indiana; Spencer Danielson, Boise State; Kenny Dillingham, Arizona State; Marcus Freeman, Notre Dame; Dan Lanning, Oregon; Rhett Lashlee, SMU; Jeff Monken, Army; and Kirby Smart, Georgia.
Wrapping up his fourth season leading the South Carolina Football program, Coach Beamer is enjoying his most successful season to date.
Beamer’s 2024 squad posted nine regular season wins, something that has been done just five times in school history. The Gamecocks recorded a school-record four wins against ranked opponents, including three in consecutive weeks as part of a season-ending six-game winning streak. He was the Bobby Dodd National Coach of the Week following the Gamecocks’ upset win over Texas A&M and earned SEC Coach of the Year accolades. The Gamecocks will finish the season with their highest ranking since 2013.
Beamer, who owns a 29-21 record, has won more games through his first four seasons at Carolina than any other coach, one more than Steve Spurrier, the school’s all-time winningest coach. Beamer is South Carolina’s first Eddie Robinson Award finalist.
The finalists have been placed on a ballot which has been sent to the entire FWAA membership. The award honors regular season performance, including conference championship games. The 2024 recipient will be announced on Wed., Dec. 18. The official presentation will be at a reception Sat., Jan. 18, 2025, in Atlanta, the site of the College Football Playoff National Championship.
“Our nine Coach of the Year finalists represent everything that has defined college football in 2024: From surprise success stories like Curt Cignetti, Jeff Monken, Kenny Dillingham and Rhett Lashlee to the resurgence of South Carolina under Shane Beamer and Boise State under Spencer Danielson, to the programs with sustained excellence under Kirby Smart, Marcus Freeman and Dan Lanning,” FWAA president Andrea Adelson said. “Each coach has demonstrated an exceptional ability to get the most out of his players, and we look forward to the winner carrying on the legacy set forth by the legendary Eddie Robinson.”
“The FWAA and the Eddie Robinson family believe this is an outstanding group of finalists with a mixture of conference champions and inspiring breakthrough seasons for some teams,” said Eddie Robinson III, Coach Robinson’s grandson, along with FWAA Executive Director Steve Richardson. “The outstanding coaching jobs done by several rising coaches gives us as much depth to this field as we have ever had. The FWAA membership will have an interesting time picking a winner.”
“The Allstate Sugar Bowl is proud to work with the FWAA as the title sponsor of the annual Eddie Robinson Coach of the Year Award,” said Sugar Bowl Committee President Walter Becker. “Not only do we get to recognize coaching excellence on the football field from around the country, but we also get to honor the legacy of Louisiana’s own Coach Eddie Robinson. We are looking forward to hosting this year’s Eddie Robinson Coach of the Year event next month in Atlanta.”
Beamer will lead the 15th Gamecocks (9-3, 5-3 SEC) to the 79th Cheez-It Citrus Bowl on Dec. 31 to face the No. 20 Illinois Fighting Illini (9-3, 6-3 Big Ten). Game time is set for 3 pm and the contest will be televised nationally on ABC.
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Download imageSANTEE, S.C. – Corn and soybean growers can learn the latest in cropping strategies, weed and insect controls, agronomics, economics and other topics during the South Carolina Corn and Soybean Growers Annual Meeting Dec. 17.There is no charge for this meeting. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. at the Santee Convention Center, 1737 Bass Drive, Santee, South Carolina 29142. Lunch will be provid...
SANTEE, S.C. – Corn and soybean growers can learn the latest in cropping strategies, weed and insect controls, agronomics, economics and other topics during the South Carolina Corn and Soybean Growers Annual Meeting Dec. 17.
There is no charge for this meeting. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. at the Santee Convention Center, 1737 Bass Drive, Santee, South Carolina 29142. Lunch will be provided. Certified crop advisor and pesticide recertification credits have been applied for.
Michael Plumblee, Clemson Cooperative Extension Service corn and soybean specialist, said the meeting is geared toward farmers, but input suppliers will also benefit.
“The agenda for this year’s meeting covers a variety of topics corn and soybean growers will find useful as they prepare for next year’s crops,” Plumblee said. “We encourage everyone to come, and we hope that the information presented can be implemented in their operation moving forward to improve profitability and help with decision-making in 2025.”
The meeting starts with a welcome by the South Carolina Soybean Board. Updates will be provided by Kyle Kunkler of the American Soybean Association, Cody Simpson of South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster’s office and a representative from the National Corn Growers Association.
Other speakers include Plumblee who will speak about corn and soybean agronomics; Bennett Harrelson, a Clemson doctoral student who will discuss double-cropping corn and soybean; Scott Mickey, Clemson Extension ag economist, will talk about economics and budgeting for the 2025 crop year; and Michael Marshall, Clemson Extension weed scientist, will give a weed control update.
Adam Whitfield, a Clemson doctoral student, will give an update on insect thresholds in soybean and Carrie Ortel, Virginia Tech University Extension soybean specialist, will talk about potassium in soybean.
The meeting will close with remarks from John Long, farmer and chairman of the South Carolina Corn Board, and Matthew Holt, dean of the Clemson University College of Agriculture, Forestry and Life Sciences.
For more information, contact Michael Plumblee at mplumbl@clemson.edu, or 803-284-3343.
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CHARLOTTE — The beat goes on for Clemson.In 10 years, the Tigers have won eight ACC titles, thanks to a 34-31 win over SMU. Count wins — whether that's a conference championship, a bowl or a College Football Playoff matchup — and Clemson has at least one postseason victory in each of the last 14 seasons.Now, the No. 12 seed Tigers are bo...
CHARLOTTE — The beat goes on for Clemson.
In 10 years, the Tigers have won eight ACC titles, thanks to a 34-31 win over SMU. Count wins — whether that's a conference championship, a bowl or a College Football Playoff matchup — and Clemson has at least one postseason victory in each of the last 14 seasons.
Now, the No. 12 seed Tigers are bound for the playoff, readying to kick off a first-round CFP game at No. 5 Texas at 4 p.m. ET on Dec. 21.
The beat goes on, but for Clemson coach Dabo Swinney, there have been positive and negative trends.
"Nobody ever has done anything like that in college football," Swinney remarked, referencing his 14-year postseason streak. "But all we hear is how bad we are and how terrible we are and how stupid I am."
It has been a taxing and somewhat toxic few years for Clemson football, which has achieved more consistency than almost anyone. But it's still well short of the impossibly high bar the Tigers set with six straight CFPs and two national titles.
A quarterback, DJ Uiagalelei, couldn't quite carry the mantle left by national title winners Deshaun Watson and Trevor Lawrence. Swinney's top assistants, Tony Elliott and Brent Venables, left for head-coaching jobs in 2021 before the Tigers finished 10-3 and Cheez-It Bowl champions.
The next year, Tennessee trampled Clemson in the Orange Bowl, and Swinney switched play-callers from a program mainstay, Brandon Streeter, to a hot name, Garrett Riley. But Cade Klubnik opened 4-4 as a first-year starter in 2023.
Losses to Georgia, Louisville and South Carolina put the Tigers on the windingest of paths to the playoff this season.
But they made it.
"Everybody counts us out. Everybody talks down to Clemson, 'They play in the ACC' and all that," defensive end T.J. Parker said. "We see it. We save it for later, man. We just keep our head down, keep working. Keep winning.
"It's about what we do. Not what they say."
What do the events of the last 24 hours say about Clemson? Here are takeaways from the Tigers' ACC title win, and where they are now headed in the CFP:
If this was a year ago, Clemson would still be out of the playoff because there is no way a three-loss conference champion would make a four-team field when undefeated Florida State didn't.
But that's not the game being played anymore, just like the four-team CFP created more opportunity than the two-team BCS.
"Us Against The World" was scrawled on a whiteboard senior linebacker Barrett Carter carried with him postgame. The Tigers seem very much aware of the narratives surrounding them, which probably weren't helped by blowing a 31-14 lead in the fourth quarter and needing a 56-yard field goal to win.
"Nobody wants to see Clemson on top," Tigers tight end Jake Briningstool said, recalling a comment on ESPN's College GameDay about the "chaos" a Clemson win in the ACC title game would create.
"That was our thing coming into this game," Briningstool added, :to create that Clemson chaos."
Swinney used to enjoy saying "little ol' Clemson" — until all of the Tigers' winning made them not so little anymore. But now they are underdogs. Spoilers.
For all the people criticizing Swinney's minimal use of the transfer portal or his recent losses in recruiting in the name, image and likeness (NIL) era, he has a message.
"A lot of times people want you to compromise, they want you to be like everybody else," Swinney said. "But God doesn't create you to be like everybody else. He creates you to be you. We're one of one."
Adam Randall provided a perfect example of how loyalty plays out in Clemson's program, and it cuts both ways.
Randall, the junior receiver, didn't transfer out after a couple of freshmen, Bryant Wesco Jr. and T.J. Moore, surpassed him on the depth chart. Swinney didn't lose faith in Randall, either, despite injury-plagued seasons.
The 6-foot-2, 225-pound wideout was tasked with handling kick-return duties with 16 seconds left in the game, immediately after SMU tied it at 31. Jay Haynes, the Tigers' No. 2 running back, was sidelined by injury. Freshman David Eziomume had muffed a return.
Randall not only fielded SMU's kickoff cleanly — he exploded for Clemson's longest return of the year, 41 yards, to put Klubnik in position for a 17-yard pass to set up Nolan Hauser's game-winning kick.
"We were going to fair catch it, and I said, 'No, let's return this thing,'" Swinney said. "Hey, anything can happen."
Randall, a player who has waded through ups and downs, offered the Tigers the most magnificent high. One of his best blocks came from reserve running back Keith Adams Jr., who was a late pickup in the 2022 recruiting cycle when Clemson whiffed on other targets at the position.
Swinney gets a lot of grief for not kicking players like Randall out the door or not adding veteran transfers over lower-ranked recruits like Adams. But in this case, the pieces came together at just the right time.
Hauser is 17 of 23 on his field goals this year, but five of those misses were blocked.
The freshman logged his first miss that wasn't tipped by a defender, a 44-yarder, in the second quarter of the ACC title game.
But Swinney did not hesitate to go back to Hauser — the national record-holder for the most field goals in a high school career — for another 44-yarder late in the first half. And when the Tigers were presented with a 56-yarder to win it, offensive line coach Matt Luke turned to Swinney.
"You think he's got that kind of leg?" Luke asked.
"We're about to find out," Swinney said.
Parker, a trash-talker on the defensive side of the ball, had no doubt in Hauser's moxie. The sophomore recalled his introduction to the freshman during Gator Bowl practices last December, telling Hauser, "Bro, you're gonna miss this," as he lined up for a 55-yarder.
Hauser replied "I can make this (crap) with my eyes closed."
"The confidence in him is through the roof," Parker said. "That's what you need in a kicker, going out there and making game-winning kicks like that. Definitely won't be his last."
Obviously, the need for a game-winner speaks to the Tigers' inconsistency.
They jumped on SMU early, forcing turnovers and capitalizing with points. Clemson took a 24-7 lead into half. But the Mustangs nearly forced overtime.
"I think that first half tonight was a good glimpse of what we can do as a team and how dominant we can be," Briningstool. "Just being able to sustain that for a whole game (is next). We're getting hot at the best time."
Clemson's offense was explosive early, in particular Wesco with touchdowns of 35 and 43 yards. At the same time, the Tigers' run game was slowed to 64 yards by the Mustangs' stout front and Phil Mafah's lingering shoulder injury.
CHARLOTTE — No. 17 Clemson football looks to end its three-year CFP drought with a win Saturday.The Tigers (9-3) will face ...
CHARLOTTE — No. 17 Clemson football looks to end its three-year CFP drought with a win Saturday.
The Tigers (9-3) will face No. 7 SMU (11-1) in the conference title game on Saturday (8:15 p.m. ET, ABC) in Charlotte at Bank of America Stadium. The winner will clinch a spot in the College Football Playoff and a possible first-round bye. Despite losing to South Carolina last week, Clemson earned an ACC Championship Game berth because Syracuse upset Miami.
SMU is one of two Power 4 teams to go undefeated in conference games this season — Oregon is the other. The Mustangs have won nine straight and are in the CFP field but could fall out if they lose to Clemson. They average 39.2 points, the fifth most in the country, and are led by third-year quarterback Kevin Jennings, who has over 3,000 total yards for 23 total touchdowns (four rushing) and seven interceptions.
This will be the first meeting between these two programs as SMU joined the ACC this season.
Watch Clemson football vs SMU in ACC championship live on Fubo
Clemson kicker Nolan Hauser redeemed himself after his miss. He made a 44-yard field goal to give Clemson a 17-point lead.
Neither team could sustain drives after SMU's missed field goals with both punting.
Clemson has the ball on SMU's 44-yard line.
SMU had a chance to get back into the game after Clemson's missed field goal. However, SMU's drive stalled after it passed midfield.
SMU kicker Collin Rogers missed a 53-yard field goal short to give Clemson's offense solid field position.
Clemson could not generate points off of its turnover. Its drive stalled and settled for a 44-yard field goal.
However, freshman kicker Nolan Hauser missed it, giving SMU life.
Clemson's defense responded to contain SMU's offense, forcing a third-and-9. SMU quarterback Kevin Jennings tried to extend the play but threw an errant pass under pressure to Tigers defensive back Khalil Barnes.
America is learning about freshman Bryant Wesco Jr. He scored a 43-yard touchdown, his second of the game, to add on to Clemson's lead. Clemson's drive was extended thanks to a questionable roughing the passer penalty earlier in the possession.
Tigers quarterback Cade Klubnik is 5-for-6 for 106 yards and three touchdowns through the first quarter.
After two poor drives, SMU responded with its first touchdown of the game. SMU quarterback Kevin Jennings led a 10-play drive for 75 yards capped by Jennings' 24-yard rushing touchdown on a designed run.
Everything has gone right for Clemson so far Saturday. Tigers quarterback Cade Klubnik found tight end Jake Briningstool for a 5-yard touchdown to increase the team's lead.
SMU had a three-and-out after failing to convert a first down. Then, it allowed a 17-yard punt return from Clemson's Antonio Williams with an unnecessary roughness penalty tacked on. The ball is spotted on SMU's 28-yard line.
The Tigers capitalized off of their turnover to score the game's first points. Clemson quarterback Cade Klubik appeared to run the ball on a designed run, but he fooled SMU's defense to find freshman wide receiver Bryant Wesco Jr. open for a 35-yard touchdown.
Tigers defensive end T.J. Parker strip sacked SMU quarterback Kevin Jennings to force the game's first turnover.
Parker has forced a fumble in four of his past five games.
SMU won the toss and chose to receive the ball first. Clemson will start with the ball to begin the third quarter.
Clemson vs. SMU will be broadcast nationally on ABC. Sean McDonough and Greg McElroy will call the game from the booth at Bank of America Stadium, with Molly McGrath reporting from the sidelines. Streaming options for the game include FUBO or ESPN+, the network's subscription streaming service.
Clemson 27, SMU 24: This game has the makings to be a shootout with both teams carrying potent offenses, but it will turn into a gritty, rough game in the second half. Both are fighting for a CFP spot, but the Tigers will come out victorious. Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik will get a chance to redeem his late-game mistake against South Carolina to lead the Tigers on a game-winning drive to punch their ticket to the CFP.
Game lines and odds from BetMGM as of Saturday:
Clemson: Wide receiver Tyler Brown, safety R.J. Mickens, defensive tackle DeMonte Capehart and running back Phil Mafah are active.
SMU: Wide receiver Romello Brinson is active.
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