Clemson planning for full capacity Death Valley this fall

CLEMSON — Plans are in place for Clemson to play in a full Memorial Stadium come September. 

In an email sent out Friday, Clemson president Jim Clements said he expects sporting events to be at full capacity next fall, including football games at Memorial Stadium. 

“We’re also planning for a normal level of campus activity starting in the fall, including fall capacity for Tigers’ football games,” Clements said. 

The school also plans to offer almost all courses in-person next academic year. 

The Tigers allowed 19,000 fans into Death Valley last season, roughly one-fourth of the facility’s capacity. Fans were seated primarily in groups of two or four throughout the stadium, and tailgating was discouraged. 

The 2021 season opens for the Tigers on Sept. 4 at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte, N.C., against Georgia. Their home opener comes a week later when they host South Carolina State. 

Clemson has a 95-17-8 record in home openers against 38 different opponents all-time. 

“Our campus and athletic department staff have done a remarkable job navigating this challenge, and has worked tirelessly to provide a safe, accommodating atmosphere for our student-athletes, staff and fans throughout the past year,” Clemson athletic director Dan Radakovich said in a statement. “September is still a long way out and we know much can change, but when IPTAY season ticket requests become available on April 1, it will be with an intent to have full capacity at Memorial Stadium.”

The Tigers are currently in the middle of spring ball, retooling after their 49-28 loss to Ohio State in the College Football Playoff semifinals. They have to replace a starting quarterback, running back and two offensive linemen. 

Clemson’s annual spring scrimmage is scheduled for April 3. No details on admission have been announced.