What is the capacity of Frank Howard Field at Clemson Memorial Stadium?

Frank Howard Field at Memorial Stadium, known as "Death Valley," holds 81,500 and is one of college football's most intimidating venues. The nickname predates LSU's—coined in 1948 by a rival coach who dreaded playing there. Home to four national championship teams (1981, 2016, 2018, 2019), it boasts a 76.1% all-time home winning percentage.

🏛️History

Origins

Built 1941-42 by scholarship athletes including football players, dedicated as a memorial to "all Clemson men who have made the supreme sacrifice for their country." Opened September 19, 1942 with a 32-13 win over Presbyterian. Field named for legendary coach Frank Howard in 1974.

Major Renovations

1978First upper deck added

1983Second upper deck completed (80,000+ capacity)

2015WestZone Phase 3 completed with Oculus

2023Phase II: new locker room, Lot 5 Tiger Walk reimagined, "DaboTron" video board

Notable Moments

Sep 24, 1966First game with Howard's Rock tradition—Clemson beat Virginia 40-35

Nov 7, 1999Record crowd of 86,092 for "Bowden Bowl I" (first father-son coaching matchup)

2016-2022ACC-record 40-game home winning streak

🎟️Visitor Guide

Best Seats

Sections G-D and N-Q from row J up offer midfield views between the 30s. WestZone Club (101-114) has chairbacks, climate-controlled lounge, and covered seating. Most seats are bleacher-style—bring a cushion. North suites (Clemson side) include theater-style padded seats.

Parking Tips

Lots open 6am for noon games, 8am otherwise. IPTAY donors get reserved lots. Free public parking at Newspring Church and Seneca Creek Meadows with shuttle service. Kite Hill (Perimeter Rd at Hwy 76) is free. Traffic is brutal—arrive 3+ hours early.

Game Day

Tiger Walk starts 2 hrs before kickoff in Lot 5—watch players touch Howard's Rock! Then catch Tiger Band's "90 Minutes Before Kickoff" concert at the amphitheater. "Running Down the Hill" is what Brent Musburger called "the most exciting 25 seconds in college football." Clemson allows pass-outs—you can leave at halftime and return. Post-game, hit the Esso Club.