Clemson finished its conference slate with a win last week in Louisville. Now the Tigers look ahead to their last home game, against FCS foe Furman this weekend. This will be a tune-up game before Clemson travels to Columbia next week to face its in-state rival, South Carolina.
Even though it’s against an FCS opponent, this is still an important game for the Tigers. They will become bowl-eligible with a win. Also, it will be senior day for Clemson, and those being recognized will want to end things on a high note. The Tigers should send those seniors out with a win in their final home game. But these games against FCS teams can be tricky if they’re overlooked.
Clemson vs Furman
Furman in 2025
Furman is typically one of the best teams in the FCS, especially in the Southern Conference. The Palisades last won the SoCon championship in 2023. Head coach Clay Hendrix has won two conference championships and Coach of the Year awards in his nine-year stint. Much like Clemson, though, they have hit a rough patch this season.
Furman is currently 6-5 overall this season and finished 4-4 in the SoCon. The Palisades beat VMI in their last outing, 32-14 at home. They have not played any other FBS opponents this season and are 2-3 on the road.
Furman is at its best offensively when its passing game gets hot. Quarterback Trey Hedden has completed 69.6% of his passes for 2,788 yards and 16 touchdowns. He’s got plenty of weapons to connect with as well. The Palisades have six players with 200+ receiving yards on the season.
Defensively, there is one game-wrecker the Tigers’ offensive line must always be aware of. Furman defensive end Joshua Stoneking has the ability to dominate a game on his own. He’s stuffed the stat sheet this season with 73 total tackles, 20 tackles for loss, 13.5 sacks, two forced fumbles, and a safety. Stoneking plays the run and rushes the passer at a high level. He is the motor of the Palisades’ defense.
Clemson Needs to Dominate
Clemson needs a dominant victory on Saturday. The Tigers are 2-4 at home this season and have not looked good at all in front of the home crowd. If Dabo Swinney wants to continue winning the fans back, he’s got to get his team to perform better at home. This sets the stage for why Saturday’s game is pivotal.
This game can’t be a repeat of Troy in week two; instead, it needs to be more reminiscent of the Week two win in 2024 against Appalachian State or the North Carolina game this season. Therefore, Clemson needs to get a big lead early on and put on a bit of a show for the home fans.
Much of the excitement we’re used to seeing in Memorial Stadium has died down, mainly because there hasn’t been much to cheer for from the home team. Still, the fans are showing up. They need a reason to keep investing in the program as the Tigers continue their attempts to finish the season strong and build towards next year.
How To Watch
Location: Memorial Stadium in Clemson, South Carolina
Date and Time: Saturday, November 22, at 4:30 pm
Television Network: The CW
History: Clemson holds a 32-game streak over Furman dating back to 1938
Main Photo: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
