Both Palmetto State schools have made their mark in the “way too early” rankings released by ESPN, The Athletic, and CBS Sports following Monday’s national championship game. Clemson has been placed in the Top 10 in all three polls, with ESPN ranking the Tigers No. 7, The Athletic placing them at No. 5, and CBS Sports slotting them at No. 8. Meanwhile, South Carolina has earned spots in the rankings as well, coming in at No. 10 in ESPN’s poll, No. 16 in The Athletic’s, and No. 11 in CBS Sports’ rankings.
Clemson’s strong showing in these early rankings comes after a successful 2024 season, which included a 10-4 record and a victory over SMU in the ACC Championship. The Tigers also earned a spot in the College Football Playoff for the seventh time, solidifying their reputation as a national contender. With QB Cade Klubnik returning and standout defensive lineman Peter Woods back in the fold, Clemson has the pieces in place for another strong season.
South Carolina, while not quite as high as Clemson in the rankings, has also gained significant respect following a promising season. The Gamecocks have impressed enough to earn their place in the Top 25, with their highest ranking coming at No. 10 in ESPN’s poll. While their path to national prominence is still developing, South Carolina’s rising talent and the leadership of head coach Shane Beamer have set them up for a competitive 2025 season.
The rankings released by ESPN, The Athletic, and CBS Sports showcase the growing strength of both Clemson and South Carolina in the national landscape. As two of the top programs in the SEC, these schools will be battling for superiority not only within the conference but on the national stage as well. With both teams poised to make noise in 2025, the Palmetto State could be home to some of the most exciting college football matchups in the coming years.
As we look ahead to the 2025 season, it’s clear that both Clemson and South Carolina are expected to be major players in the college football landscape. With top-tier talent returning for both programs and the motivation to build on their recent successes, fans can expect another thrilling year of competition. Whether the Tigers can maintain their status among the nation’s elite or the Gamecocks can make a run for a higher ranking, the Palmetto State schools are primed for an exciting football season ahead.
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