50 reasons to love the Tigers

1. HOWARD’S ROCK

First mounted on a pedestal at the top of the hill in the East end zone in the 1966 season, the rock came to coach Frank Howard from Death Valley, Calif., courtesy of a Tiger fan. It became a school tradition before a game against Wake Forest when Howard told his players, “If you're going to give me 110 percent, you can rub that rock. If you're not, keep your filthy hands off it.” After that victory, the Tigers have been rubbing it ever since for good luck.

2. ESSO CLUB

You can’t fill up your car there anymore, but you can still put a Tiger in the tank. Clemson fans like to fill up on food, drinks and school spirit there before and after games. Football broadcaster Brent Musberger made the former gas station famous nationally by discussing his visits on-air whenever he came to town. It has become one of the most-renowned college-town sports bars.

3. 1981 NATIONAL CHAMPS