Clemson Hosts Virginia Cavaliers Amid Recruitment-Fueled Weekend

Clemson University, ranked No. 10 in college football, is set to host the Virginia Cavaliers at Memorial Stadium, commonly known as Death Valley, this weekend. The game marks a significant event as head coach Tony Elliott, formerly of Clemson, returns at the helm of Virginia’s team.

Following two consecutive weekends of away games, the Tigers hope to leverage their home advantage in front of both fans and high school recruits. Jordan Young, a priority target for Clemson’s 2025 recruiting class and currently a 4-star safety prospect, confirmed his attendance for the matchup. ESPN ranks Young as the 39th overall prospect and the third-best safety in his class. He is expected to announce his college commitment on November 2, with Clemson, NC State, Michigan, and Florida State as leading contenders.

This weekend will reportedly play a crucial role in Young’s decision, especially after his last visit during Clemson’s commanding win over NC State last month. Observers note that the recruitment battle is particularly fierce between Clemson and NC State.

Also scheduled to attend is Mason Holtzclaw, a budding quarterback for the class of 2027, who will witness the Tigers in action for the third time this season. His inclusion underscores Clemson’s proactive efforts in attracting top talent early in the recruitment cycle.

Adding to the recruitment theme, Makhi Williams-Lee, a new Clemson commit and a defensive lineman for the 2025 class, is expected to be on-site, emphasizing the Tigers’ ongoing efforts to solidify future lineups.

In addition to recruitment storylines, the game promises intriguing narratives such as the return of C.J. Spiller, a former star player, who will be inducted into Clemson’s prestigious Ring of Honor.