Gamecocks to open 2017 football season against N.C. State

South Carolina and North Carolina State have agreed to meet in the 2017 opener in Charlotte, N.C., the schools confirmed on Tuesday.

The specific date of the game between the Wolfpack and Gamecocks will be set later. It will be held in Bank of America Stadium, home to the NFL’s Carolina Panthers and located near the state line between the Carolinas.

“The Charlotte market continues to be important for our University and athletics program,” South Carolina Athletics Director Ray Tanner said in a statement. “I am appreciative of the opportunity provided by the Charlotte Sports Foundation to continue our presence in the Belk College Kickoff Game, playing NC State in 2017. We look forward to a great game and a quality atmosphere for our student-athletes, coaches, staff, alumni and fans.”

It will be the first meeting between the schools since a home-and-home series to open the 2008 and 2009 seasons, both won by South Carolina. North Carolina State last played in Charlotte for the Belk Bowl win against Louisville in 2011.

South Carolina will be a frequent visitor to Charlotte in the coming seasons. The Gamecocks played North Carolina there last month, and return to face the Tar Heels in 2019 and 2023.