The Clemson Tigers football schedule for 2026 features 12 regular-season games, including a season-opening road trip to LSU on Saturday, September 5, 2026, seven home games at Memorial Stadium in Clemson, South Carolina, and eight Atlantic Coast Conference matchups.
The schedule was officially released on Sunday, January 26, 2026, by Clemson University Athletics.
Table of Contents
Official 2026 Clemson Football Schedule
| Date | Opponent | Location | Conference Game | Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saturday, September 5, 2026 | at the LSU Tigers | Baton Rouge, Louisiana | No | TBA |
| Saturday, September 12, 2026 | Georgia Southern Eagles | Memorial Stadium, Clemson, SC | No | TBA |
| Saturday, September 19, 2026 | North Carolina Tar Heels | Memorial Stadium, Clemson, SC | Yes | TBA |
| Friday, September 25, 2026 | at California Golden Bears | Berkeley, California | Yes | TBA |
| Saturday, October 3, 2026 | Miami Hurricanes | Memorial Stadium, Clemson, SC | Yes | TBA |
| Saturday, October 10, 2026 | BYE WEEK | — | — | — |
| Saturday, October 17, 2026 | Charleston Southern Buccaneers | Memorial Stadium, Clemson, SC | No | TBA |
| Saturday, October 24, 2026 | Virginia Tech Hokies | Memorial Stadium, Clemson, SC | Yes | TBA |
| Saturday, October 31, 2026 | at Florida State Seminoles | Tallahassee, Florida | Yes | TBA |
| TBA (November 6 or 7, 2026) | at Syracuse Orange | Syracuse, New York | Yes | TBA |
| Saturday, November 14, 2026 | Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets | Memorial Stadium, Clemson, SC | Yes | TBA |
| Saturday, November 21, 2026 | at Duke Blue Devils | Durham, North Carolina | Yes | TBA |
| Saturday, November 28, 2026 | South Carolina Gamecocks | Memorial Stadium, Clemson, SC | No | TBA |
The Tigers play seven home games and five road games during the 2026 season. Memorial Stadium, known as Death Valley, has a capacity of 81,500 seated fans and can accommodate 86,000-plus with standing room areas.
Clemson Football Schedule 2026: Key Matchups and What to Watch
Season Opener: Death Valley vs. Death Valley
Clemson opens the 2026 season at LSU’s Tiger Stadium in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, on Saturday, September 5, 2026. Both stadiums share the nickname “Death Valley,” creating a unique narrative for the season opener. LSU’s Tiger Stadium holds 102,321 fans, making it the eighth-largest stadium in college football, while Clemson’s Memorial Stadium seats 81,500.
The matchup marks Clemson’s first road game to open a season since 2021. Head coach Dabo Swinney enters his 18th season leading the Tigers with an $11.5 million base salary under a 10-year contract that runs through 2031.
ACC Conference Schedule Details
Clemson plays eight Atlantic Coast Conference games in 2026, one fewer than the standard nine-game ACC format most conference members will use. This scheduling anomaly occurs during the 2026 transition year as the ACC implements its new scheduling model.
The Tigers’ ACC opponents include:
Home ACC Games (4 total):
- North Carolina Tar Heels (Saturday, September 19, 2026)
- Miami Hurricanes (Saturday, October 3, 2026)
- Virginia Tech Hokies (Saturday, October 24, 2026)
- Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (Saturday, November 14, 2026)
Road ACC Games (4 total):
- at California Golden Bears (Friday, September 25, 2026)
- at Florida State Seminoles (Saturday, October 31, 2026)
- at Syracuse Orange (TBA, November 6 or 7, 2026)
- at Duke Blue Devils (Saturday, November 21, 2026)
First Friday Night Game and West Coast Travel
Clemson plays its first-ever ACC conference game on the West Coast when the Tigers travel to California Memorial Stadium in Berkeley on Friday, September 25, 2026. This represents a significant logistical challenge for East Coast-based Clemson fans and requires adjustments for kickoff time expectations across time zones.
California Memorial Stadium holds 63,000 fans and sits at an elevation of 300 feet above sea level. The Friday night game provides unique scheduling that differs from Clemson’s traditional Saturday format.
The Palmetto Bowl: Season Finale vs. South Carolina
The 115th meeting between Clemson and South Carolina closes the regular season on Saturday, November 28, 2026, at Memorial Stadium. Clemson leads the all-time series 73-43-4 and has not lost to the same opponent in consecutive years since 2014.
The Palmetto Bowl rivalry dates back to 1896 and represents one of the fiercest in-state rivalries in college football. South Carolina seeks to extend its recent success after winning in 2025.
Clemson Football Schedule 2026: Coaching Staff Changes and Impact
New Coordinators Lead Offensive and Defensive Overhaul
Clemson enters 2026 with significant coaching staff changes following a 7-6 season in 2025. The Tigers hired:
- Chad Morris as Offensive Coordinator (replacing Garrett Riley, who was fired in December 2025)
- Tom Allen as Defensive Coordinator (replacing Wes Goodwin, who departed for another position)
- Freddie Kitchens as Senior Analyst
Morris previously served as Clemson’s offensive coordinator from 2011 to 2014, during which the Tigers won ACC championships in 2011 and 2015. His Air Raid offensive background contrasts with the pro-style schemes Clemson used under Riley.
Allen brings defensive expertise from his tenure at Penn State and other programs. The combination of Morris and Allen represents a philosophical shift in how Clemson approaches both sides of the ball.
Quarterback Competition and Roster Transition
The Tigers return quarterback Cade Klubnik while also welcoming four-star dual-threat recruit Tait Reynolds to the 2026 roster. Clemson’s 2026 recruiting class ranks between No. 18 and No. 20 nationally according to 247Sports and ESPN, with 22 total signees.
Notable 2026 recruits include:
- Wide receiver Naeem Burroughs (No. 91 ESPN300)
- Safety Kentavion Anderson (No. 150 ESPN300)
Transfer Portal Activity and Defensive Rebuild
Clemson added nine-plus incoming transfers for 2026, marking the program’s most aggressive use of the transfer portal under Swinney. Key transfers include:
| Position | Player | Previous School |
|---|---|---|
| Linebacker | Luke Ferrelli | Carlsbad High School |
| Cornerback | Donovan Starr | Ravenwood High School |
| Defensive Line | London Merritt | Colorado |
| Safety | Corey Myrick | Southern Mississippi |
| Safety | Jerome Carter | Previous team TBA |
| Running Back | Chris Johnson Jr. | SMU (22.3 mph speed) |
The defensive additions address depth concerns following Clemson’s struggles in 2025, when the Tigers allowed significant yardage in ACC conference play.
How to Watch Clemson Football Games in 2026
TV Networks and Streaming Options
Clemson games in 2026 will air on ESPN networks, including ESPN, ESPN2, and ACC Network. Specific game times and channel assignments will be announced approximately 12 days before each game, as the ACC and its broadcast partners implement flexible scheduling.
Streaming options include:
- ESPN+ (subscription required)
- ACC Network Extra (for select games)
- Official conference streaming platforms
Kickoff Times Announcement Schedule
The ACC releases kickoff times on a rolling basis throughout the season. Games typically receive time assignments between 6 and 12 days before kickoff, depending on television windows and competitive balance considerations.
High-profile matchups such as Miami (October 3), Florida State (October 31), and South Carolina (November 28) likely will receive primetime or afternoon slots on major ESPN networks.
Clemson Football Schedule 2026: Tickets and Attendance Information
IPTAY Membership and Season Ticket Access
Clemson football tickets for 2026 require IPTAY membership for season ticket holders. The IPTAY system prioritizes members based on annual contribution levels and years of continuous membership.
Key IPTAY deadlines for 2026:
- 50% pledge payment deadline: Sunday, February 15, 2026
- Seat assignment and selection windows open after February 15
- Single-game ticket availability varies by opponent
Season ticket packages provide guaranteed access to all seven home games at Memorial Stadium. IPTAY members receive priority purchasing windows before single-game tickets become available to the general public.
Single-Game Ticket Availability
Single-game tickets for high-demand matchups such as Miami (October 3) and South Carolina (November 28) typically sell out within hours of public release. Secondary market options exist through official resale platforms and third-party ticket exchanges.
Ticket price ranges for 2026 (estimated):
- Non-conference games: $45–$85 per seat
- ACC conference games: $65–$125 per seat
- South Carolina rivalry game: $150–$300+ per seat
Road Game Tickets: LSU Season Opener
Tickets for Clemson’s season-opening game at LSU in Baton Rouge start at $245–$263 on secondary markets, including Expedia and SeatGeek. Official travel packages through BookSeats and Elite Sports Tours include game tickets, hotel accommodations, and transportation options for Clemson fans traveling to Louisiana.
LSU’s Tiger Stadium offers 102,321 seats, making it one of the most challenging road environments in college football. Clemson fans should expect limited visitor section availability and premium pricing for the September 5 opener.
Memorial Stadium: Home of Clemson Football
Stadium Capacity and Seating Information
Memorial Stadium, known as Death Valley, serves as Clemson’s home venue with a seated capacity of 81,500 and total capacity exceeding 86,000 when including standing room areas. The stadium opened in 1942 and has undergone multiple expansions, with the most recent significant renovation completed in 2016.
The facility features:
- West End Zone upper deck (added 2006, capacity 9,000)
- East End Zone club seating and luxury suites (renovated 2016)
- The Hill, an iconic 50-yard grass slope where players touch Howard’s Rock before entering the field
- WestZone Club and premium hospitality spaces
Stadium Renovations and 2026 Updates
Minor renovations to the east end zone and Hill area are planned, but will not disrupt 2026 home games. The modifications focus on easing the Hill’s angle and expanding standing room areas for enhanced fan access.
Memorial Stadium also hosts the “Death Valley Nights” concert series, with George Strait scheduled to perform on Saturday, May 2, 2026. The concert utilizes the stadium’s infrastructure without affecting football season preparations.
Parking and Gameday Experience
IPTAY members receive priority access to designated parking zones surrounding Memorial Stadium. Parking zones are assigned based on IPTAY contribution levels and proximity to the stadium.
Parking options include:
- IPTAY member lots (priority assignment)
- Public parking ($20–$40 per vehicle)
- Remote lots with shuttle service
- Commercial parking near campus ($50+ per vehicle)
Tailgating begins as early as Friday evening for Saturday games, with specific lot-opening times announced before each game. Memorial Stadium enforces clear bag policies and security screening protocols for all attendees.
Clemson vs. ACC Opponents: Conference Standings Impact
2026 ACC Power Rankings and Playoff Implications
Early 2026 ACC power rankings place Clemson at No. 4 in the conference behind Miami (No. 1), Louisville (No. 2), and SMU (No. 3). The 12-team College Football Playoff format guarantees automatic bids to Power Four conference champions, making ACC performance critical for postseason access.
| ACC Team | 2026 Projected Rank | Key Returning Players |
|---|---|---|
| Miami Hurricanes | No. 1 | Elite talent across roster |
| Louisville Cardinals | No. 2 | RB Isaac Brown, upgraded QB |
| SMU Mustangs | No. 3 | QB Kevin Jennings returns |
| Clemson Tigers | No. 4 | QB Cade Klubnik, WR T.J. Moore |
| Virginia Tech Hokies | No. 5 | First year under James Franklin |
Path to ACC Championship Game
Clemson must finish in the top two of its ACC division or earn an at-large berth to reach the ACC Championship Game in Charlotte, North Carolina. The conference championship game determines the ACC’s automatic College Football Playoff qualifier.
Critical conference matchups include:
- Miami at home (October 3) — potential ACC Coastal division showdown
- Florida State on the road (October 31) — historic rivalry with playoff implications
- North Carolina at home (September 19) — first conference test
Printable Clemson Football Schedule 2026 and Digital Downloads
Official Schedule PDF
Clemson University Athletics provides a downloadable PDF version of the 2026 football schedule at data.clemsontigers.com. The PDF includes opponent names, game dates, locations, and notes on kickoff times and television assignments.
The printable schedule uses official Clemson branding and can be saved for offline reference or printed for personal use.
Add to Calendar Options
Fans can add Clemson’s 2026 schedule to digital calendars through:
- Google Calendar import (iCal format)
- Apple Calendar sync (iOS devices)
- Outlook calendar integration (Windows/web)
Calendar files automatically update when kickoff times are announced, ensuring fans receive real-time schedule changes. The official Clemson Tigers athletics website provides direct calendar export links.
Clemson Football Schedule 2026: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Clemson football schedule for 2026?
The Clemson football schedule for 2026 includes 12 regular-season games with a season opener at LSU on Saturday, September 5, 2026, seven home games at Memorial Stadium, and contests against ACC opponents, including Miami, North Carolina, Florida State, and traditional rival South Carolina, to close the season on Saturday, November 28, 2026.
When is Clemson vs LSU 2026, and what time is kickoff?
Clemson plays at LSU on Saturday, September 5, 2026, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The kickoff time is to be announced approximately 12 days before the game. LSU’s Tiger Stadium holds 102,321 fans and shares the “Death Valley” nickname with Clemson’s Memorial Stadium.
Where can I download a printable Clemson schedule 2026?
A printable PDF of Clemson’s 2026 football schedule is available at data.clemsontigers.com/pdf/football/2026-27/ClemsonSchedule.pdf. The official document includes all game dates, opponents, locations, and television information released by Clemson University Athletics.
What channel is the Clemson game on this week?
Clemson games in 2026 air on ESPN networks, including ESPN, ESPN2, and ACC Network. Specific channel assignments are announced 6-12 days before each game as part of the ACC’s flexible scheduling agreement with its broadcast partners.
How many home games does Clemson have in 2026?
Clemson has seven home games at Memorial Stadium in 2026. Home opponents include Georgia Southern (September 12), North Carolina (September 19), Miami (October 3), Charleston Southern (October 17), Virginia Tech (October 24), Georgia Tech (November 14), and South Carolina (November 28).
Is there a Friday game on Clemson’s 2026 schedule?
Yes, Clemson plays at California on Friday, September 25, 2026, in Berkeley, California. This marks Clemson’s first ACC conference game on the West Coast and represents a unique Friday night scheduling departure from traditional Saturday games.
Can I add Clemson’s 2026 schedule to my Google Calendar?
Yes, Clemson provides calendar export files in iCal format that sync with Google Calendar, Apple Calendar, and Outlook. The official Clemson Tigers athletics website at clemsontigers.com offers direct calendar integration links that automatically update when kickoff times are announced.
Are ticket links available for the Clemson 2026 games?
Ticket links for Clemson’s 2026 home games are available through the official Clemson Tigers athletics ticketing portal at clemsontigers.com. Season tickets require IPTAY membership with a 50% pledge deadline of Sunday, February 15, 2026. Single-game tickets become available after season ticket holders complete their purchases.
Clemson’s 2026 Season Outlook and National Rankings
Preseason Expectations and Recruiting Impact
Clemson enters 2026 with a No. 18-20 national recruiting ranking for the class of 2026, according to 247Sports and ESPN. The Tigers signed 22 recruits, addressing needs at wide receiver, defensive back, and offensive line positions.
The combination of returning starters and transfer portal additions positions Clemson to compete for an ACC championship and College Football Playoff berth. The 12-team playoff format increases Clemson’s margin for error compared to the previous four-team system.
Historical Context: Dabo Swinney Era Performance
Head coach Dabo Swinney has led Clemson to two national championships (2016, 2018), six ACC championships, and seven College Football Playoff appearances since taking over as head coach in 2008. His overall record at Clemson stands at 173-40 through the 2025 season.
The 2026 season represents a critical year for Swinney as Clemson seeks to return to national championship contention after missing the playoff in 2024 and 2025. The coaching staff overhaul and transfer portal activity signal a willingness to adapt program philosophy.
Strength of Schedule Analysis
Difficulty Rating and Non-Conference Challenges
Clemson’s 2026 schedule features a challenging non-conference slate with road trips to LSU and California, plus the annual rivalry game against South Carolina. The Tigers also face Miami, Florida State, and North Carolina in ACC conference play.
Non-conference opponents:
- LSU Tigers (Sept. 5, Baton Rouge) — SEC opponent, projected top-25 team
- Georgia Southern Eagles (Sept. 12, home) — Sun Belt Conference opponent
- Charleston Southern Buccaneers (Oct. 17, home) — FCS opponent
- South Carolina Gamecocks (Nov. 28, home) — SEC opponent, in-state rivalry
The schedule balances high-profile road tests with manageable home games, providing opportunities for Clemson to build momentum through the season.
ACC Conference Strength Comparison
The ACC’s strength relative to the SEC and Big Ten impacts Clemson’s playoff positioning. Conference championship game performance becomes critical under the 12-team playoff format, which guarantees automatic bids to Power Four conference champions.
Clemson’s path to the playoff likely requires:
- Winning the ACC Championship Game (automatic bid)
- Finishing with 10-11 regular-season wins (at-large consideration)
- Avoiding more than two losses (maintains playoff viability)
The Tigers’ October 3 home game against Miami represents a potential preview of the ACC Championship Game matchup.
Note: All kickoff times and television assignments for Clemson’s 2026 football schedule are to be announced. Fans should monitor clemsontigers.com and ESPN.com for updated game times as they are released by the Atlantic Coast Conference and its broadcast partners approximately 6-12 days before each contest.
