Why USC’s Tiger Burn is happening same week Gamecocks play Coastal
Every year a towering, feline figure goes up in a fiery blaze at the University of South Carolina.
This year, it will be a little early.
The Tiger Burn, a campus pep rally to celebrate the rivalry between the USC Gamecocks and the Clemson University tigers, is one of the school’s most lauded traditions. Set for a 6 p.m. kickoff at Blatt Field on Wednesday, the Tiger Burn is happening the week the Gamecocks play Coastal Carolina University, rather than Clemson.
Why? The 2025-26 academic calendar.
The Tiger Burn often takes place the Monday before the Palmetto Bowl, which is traditionally the weekend following Thanksgiving. But USC students do not have classes the week of Thanksgiving, which goes from Nov. 24 to 28.
The Carolina-Clemson game in Nov. 29 at Williams-Brice Stadium.
University spokesman Jeff Stensland said some students leave for the holiday as early as this week. In order for students to be able to enjoy the pep rally, the university moved the event, rather than host it when much of the campus community is gone.
This year, the Tiger Burn will feature USC mascot Cocky, the university’s cheerleaders and student performers, according to a news release. And of course, a 30-foot tiger, built by engineering students, that is ready for destruction.
The torching begins at 7 p.m.
Wheat Street adjacent to Blatt Field will be closed. Blatt Field is only several blocks from USC’s main campus, but street parking may be available on Main and Catawba streets.
Alcohol is not allowed.
This story was originally published November 18, 2025 at 5:00 AM.
