The Clemson Tigers and NC State Wolfpack face off in the Textile Bowl, a historic ACC football rivalry dating back to 1930 with Clemson leading the all-time series 59-30-1 as of 2025. This matchup pits two proud programs from textile-rich states against each other, often delivering high-stakes drama in Death Valley or Carter-Finley Stadium. Readers will explore the deep history, legendary games, key stats, standout players, and practical tips for attending, plus predictions and trends shaping future clashes.
Rivalry Origins
The Textile Bowl began in 1930 when Clemson beat NC State 21-0 in Raleigh, marking the start of a series tied to the textile industry boom in the Carolinas. Games typically occur annually in October or November as ACC foes, with home teams hosting under the lights for electric atmospheres. Early contests featured gritty defenses and run-heavy offenses reflective of the era’s single-wing formations.
Over decades, the rivalry evolved from regional bragging rights to national relevance, especially as both schools chased ACC titles. Clemson’s rise under coaches like Frank Howard solidified their edge, while NC State’s upsets kept the series competitive.
All-Time Series Record
Clemson holds a commanding 59-30-1 lead through 2025, with recent dominance flipping a once-balanced matchup. NC State won six straight from 1951-1957, but Clemson has claimed 28 of the last 38 meetings since 1980. The series average score sits at 27-17 favoring the Tigers, with overtime thrillers adding modern spice.
| Year Range | Clemson Wins | NC State Wins | Ties | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1930-1950 | 12 | 8 | 1 | Balanced early years |
| 1951-1980 | 10 | 15 | 0 | Wolfpack’s golden era |
| 1981-2000 | 13 | 6 | 0 | Tigers take control |
| 2001-2025 | 24 | 1 | 0 | Clemson dynasty phase |
This table highlights shifts, showing Clemson’s post-2000 surge tied to playoff runs.
Iconic Historic Games
NC State’s 2011 upset, 37-13 in Raleigh, stands out as their last win, dismantling seventh-ranked Clemson with four turnovers and Mike Glennon’s three TD passes. Clemson’s 2016 overtime classic, 24-17 at home, featured Deshaun Watson’s heroics and a blocked extra point to advance their national title chase. The 2009 Clemson rout, 43-23, showcased CJ Spiller’s versatility with rushing, receiving, and passing touchdowns.
These games define eras: NC State’s defensive stands in the 1950s, Clemson’s offensive explosions post-2015. Each delivered memorable moments like Philip Rivers tying ACC TD pass records in 2003’s 17-15 thriller.
Recent Matchups Breakdown
Clemson crushed NC State 27-17 in 2024 at Raleigh, extending their streak to 14 games with Cade Klubnik throwing for 320 yards. The 2023 Death Valley blowout saw Clemson win 24-7, holding NC State to 184 total yards amid rainy conditions. Payton Wilson’s 2022 Wolfpack defense forced three turnovers, but Clemson still prevailed 27-17.
Trends show Clemson’s averaging 31 points per game lately versus NC State’s 14. Road warriors like the Tigers’ 2021 27-21 win highlight resilience.
2024 Game Highlights
Klubnik’s three TDs and freshman Ave’on Smith’s blocks sparked Clemson’s ground game. NC State’s freshman QB Grayson McCall struggled with three picks. Death Valley’s crowd noise forced false starts, sealing the rout.
Star Players History
Clemson’s Deshaun Watson (2015-16) threw for 10,195 yards and 99 TDs, engineering playoff wins over NC State. NC State’s Philip Rivers (2000-03) set ACC passing marks with 13,484 yards, including duel-winning throws. Recent stars include Clemson’s Travis Etienne (3,500+ rush yards) and NC State’s Will Shipley, both NFL-bound.
| Player | Team | Era | Key Stats | NFL Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deshaun Watson | Clemson | 2015-16 | 10,195 pass yds | Texans QB |
| Philip Rivers | NC State | 2000-03 | 13,484 pass yds | Chargers legend |
| CJ Spiller | Clemson | 2006-09 | 3,547 rush yds | Bills RB |
| Payton Wilson | NC State | 2019-23 | 459 tackles | Steelers LB |
These athletes elevated the rivalry’s profile.
Coaching Legacies
Dabo Swinney boasts a 245-53 record at Clemson since 2008, with two national titles and 24-1 vs NC State. NC State’s Dave Doeren stands at 90-62 through 2025, snapping the streak briefly in morale boosts. Legends like Clemson’s Frank Howard (1940-72, 62-34-8 in series) built foundations.
Swinney’s recruiting pipelines from Georgia contrast Doeren’s transfer portal reliance. Both emphasize culture, but Clemson’s stability shines.
Stadium Atmospheres
Death Valley (Memorial Stadium, Clemson) seats 81,500 with the iconic Hill creating ear-splitting noise—over 130 decibels recorded. Carter-Finley Stadium (Raleigh) holds 57,600, known for tailgate villages and wolf-howling traditions. Night games amplify intensity, with student sections painting end zones.
Fans pack Howard’s Rock for rub rituals at Clemson; NC State lights flares pre-kickoff. Weather—fall chills or southern rains—adds unpredictability.
Statistical Dominance Trends
Clemson leads in scoring (1,650-1,104 all-time), yards per game (32 more), and turnovers forced (200+ edge). Since 2016, Tigers average 485 yards per outing vs Wolfpack’s 330. Sacks and third-down stops favor Clemson 45-32%.
Wolfpack excels in rushing upsets, like 1957’s 200+ yards. Advanced metrics (FEI ratings) rank Clemson top-10 consistently.
National Title Impacts
Clemson’s 2016 and 2018 championships featured Textile Bowl wins as tune-ups, with Watson’s 2016 OT dagger pivotal. NC State’s 1973 bowl bid hinged on series splits. Recent CFP exclusions for both underscore stakes—wins boost resumes.
Playoff paths cross here: Clemson’s 2020s runs needed dominance. Wolfpack eyes upsets for at-large bids.
Recruiting Battles
Both target Carolinas, Georgia, and Florida, with Clemson landing five-stars like Etienne. NC State flips three-stars into producers like Wilson. 2026 classes see Clemson No. 5 nationally, NC State No. 25 per 247Sports.
Portal wars intensify: NC State grabs QBs like McCall; Clemson retains cores.
Textile Bowl Trophy
No physical trophy exists, but “Textile Bowl” honors shared industry heritage—mills dotted Clemson and Raleigh areas. Wins grant bragging rights, with series leads celebrated at boosters’ clubs. Tradition lives via murals and game balls.
Fans debate renaming for a cup, but history suffices.
Practical Information and Planning
Game Day Schedule
Kickoffs usually hit 7:30 PM ET Saturdays in October-November; 2026 likely October 24 in Raleigh. Gates open four hours early for tailgates; expect 3.5-hour games plus halftime.
Ticket Prices and Access
Tickets range $50-300 via official sites; secondary markets like SeatGeek hit $150 average. Students get free with ID; RVs book fast at $200/night.
Getting There
Fly into GSP (Greenville) for Clemson (45-min drive) or RDU (Raleigh, 20 mins to stadium). Drive I-85 for Clemson from Atlanta; I-40 for NC State from Charlotte. Shuttles run $10-20 from lots.
What to Expect
Intense crowds, beer gardens, marching bands; families welcome with kids zones. Concessions: BBQ plates $12, beer $8. Rain common—pack ponchos.
Visitor Tips
Arrive early for parking ($20); wear team colors but respect rivals. Hydrate in humidity; use apps like Waze. No bags over 12×12; metal detectors standard.
2026 Season Outlook
Clemson enters as preseason top-10 with Klubnik’s senior year eyeing playoffs; defense returns eight starters. NC State rebuilds post-McCall transfer, leaning on freshman talent amid Doeren’s extension. Prediction: Clemson 34-20 road win, extending streak to 16.
Injuries and ACC shuffle (Cal, Stanford additions) factor in. Wolfpack’s home edge could force a dogfight.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Clemson vs NC State next?
The 2026 Textile Bowl schedules for October 24 at Carter-Finley Stadium in Raleigh, NC, kicking off around 7:30 PM ET. Confirm via official ACC sites as dates flex for TV.
Who won the last Clemson vs NC State game?
Clemson won 27-17 in 2024 at NC State, with Cade Klubnik passing for three TDs in a defensive battle. This extended their streak to 14 straight victories.
What is the Textile Bowl?
The Textile Bowl nicknames the Clemson-NC State football rivalry, honoring Carolinas’ textile history since 1930. Clemson leads 59-30-1, with games drawing 60,000+ fans annually.
Where do Clemson vs NC State play?
Alternates yearly: Clemson at Memorial Stadium (81,500 seats), NC State at Carter-Finley (57,600). 2026 heads to Raleigh for home wolfpack energy.
How many times has NC State beaten Clemson?
NC State owns 30 wins, last in 2011 (37-13), during a streak-capping upset over seventh-ranked Clemson. They’ve struggled since, dropping 14 straight.
What are Clemson vs NC State all-time stats?
Clemson scores 27 PPG to NC State’s 17, with 1,650-1,104 total points. Tigers dominate yards (32 more per game) and sacks since 2015.
Who are top Clemson vs NC State players?
Standouts include Clemson’s Deshaun Watson (10,000+ yards) and Travis Etienne (3,500 rush), NC State’s Philip Rivers (13,484 pass yds) and Payton Wilson (459 tackles). Many reached NFL.
Can I buy Clemson vs NC State tickets now?
Yes, via Ticketmaster or Vivid Seats starting $50; prices climb to $300 for lower bowl. Students enter free; grab early for 2026 sellouts.
Why is Clemson vs NC State called Textile Bowl?
It reflects 20th-century textile mills in Clemson and Raleigh areas, fueling regional pride. No trophy, but the name captures blue-collar roots since Frank Howard’s era.
Best Clemson vs NC State games ever?
Top: 2011 NC State upset (37-13), 2016 Clemson OT win (24-17), 2003 thriller (17-15). Each featured turnovers, stars, and playoff implications.
How to watch Clemson vs NC State?
ABC or ESPN airs nationally; stream on ESPN app or Fubo. Radio on local affiliates; highlights post-game on YouTube. Blackout rare in Carolinas.
What is Clemson vs NC State point spread history?
Clemson favored last 14 games, covering 10 times (avg -10.5). NC State covered as dogs in 2011 (+14 win). Vegas lines for 2026 project Tigers -12.
Is Clemson favored over NC State in 2026?
Yes, early odds list Clemson -12 road dogs turned favorites, with over/under 52.5 amid high-powered offenses. Check FanDuel for updates.
Can families attend Clemson vs NC State?
Absolutely—kids zones, family sections available. Tickets from $30 kids; tailgates offer games, food. Family-friendly despite rivalry passion.
What hotels near Clemson vs NC State stadiums?
Clemson: Hampton Inn (walkable, $250/night game weekends). Raleigh: Holiday Inn (10-min shuttle, $180). Book via Booking.com six months ahead.
How does weather affect Clemson vs NC State?
Fall games see 60-70°F days, cooling to 50s nights; 30% rain chance. Turf fields drain fast; ponchos advised for soggy thrillers.
Top tailgate spots Clemson vs NC State?
Clemson: Lots 1-3 with grills, music. NC State: Centennial lots for RVs, cornhole. Arrive dawn; no glass, follow lot rules.
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