Led by first-year head coach Bob Williams, South Carolina compiled a record of 6–1.
South Carolina's upset over rival Clemson gave rise to two traditions associated with the university: its mascot and the "Tiger Burn".
In excitement over the win, some Carolina students began parading around with a drawing of a crowing gamecock over a beaten tiger, as cockfighting was still widespread in the early 1900s.
Offended by the sign, several hundred Clemson cadets marched on South Carolina College, armed with weapons.
[1][2][3][4] [8] The following players were members of the 1902 football team according to the roster published in the 1902 and 1903 editions of The Garnet and Black, the South Carolina yearbook.