Clemson Tigers Fire Up Tradition

The Clemson Tigers are set to face LSU Tigers on 2026-09-05, and a key part of their game-day tradition is the firing of a cannon, which signals the team's iconic run down the hill.

What is the tradition?

The cannon blast is a familiar sound at Clemson football games, and it has been a part of the tradition since the 1950s.

The tradition was introduced by George Bennett, a former Tigers' cheerleader who later became the Executive Director of IPTAY, Clemson's official athletic fundraising organization.

Why is it important?

The cannon blast is not just a noise, but a signal for the team to start their run down the hill, led by head coach Dabo Swinney.

Brendan Miller, an ROTC officer, has been in charge of firing the cannon for the last four years, and he also gets to fire it again after every Tigers' touchdown.

What's next for Miller?

After completing his ROTC training, Miller will be stationed in Fort Bragg, N.C., as a field artillery officer for the 82nd Airborne Division.

The Clemson Tigers' tradition is deeply rooted in the school's military history, which dates back to its founding in 1889.

The team's annual Military Appreciation Game is a testament to this history, featuring symbolic purple jerseys and a parade with ROTC members and active duty units.

And the cannon blast is a reminder of the school's core value of patriotism, which is still celebrated today.

The Clemson Tigers are known for their exciting game-day atmosphere, and the cannon blast is a big part of it.

So when the team takes on LSU Tigers on 2026-09-05, the cannon will be ready to fire, signaling the start of another exciting game.