Jan. 29, 2010

GREENVILLE, S.C. -- A clash against the University of South Carolina highlights Furman's 2010 football schedule, which was released today by director of athletics Dr. Gary Clark.

Furman's game against South Carolina on Sept. 18 will mark the first meeting between the Paladins and Gamecocks since 1982 when Furman defeated South Carolina, 28-23, at Williams Brice Stadium. The Paladins and Gamecocks first clashed in 1892 and have played 47 times over the years, with USC holding a 26-20-1 series advantage.

"This is another solid, challenging schedule that should be exciting for our players and fans," said head coach Bobby Lamb on Friday. "The last time we played South Carolina I was in uniform, so it's good to finally renew that series and keep the excitement in-state."

Six home games dot the 11-game schedule, including a Sept. 11 season opener against Patriot League member Colgate, which Furman defeated, 42-21, in 2008 in Hamilton, N.Y.

The Paladins will also entertain Howard of the Mid Eastern Athletic Conference on Oct. 9. The Bison were recently added to the slate after Presbyterian opted out of a scheduled Sept. 4 contest at Paladin Stadium.

Furman opens Southern Conference play at home against arch-rival The Citadel (Sept. 25). The following week the Paladins face Wofford (Oct. 2) in the first league road game of the campaign. Last year Furman claimed a 58-21 win over Wofford, the Paladins' oldest football rival.

Furman's final six games feature three home and three away contests. Road games include clashes against Samford (Oct. 16), defending SoCon champion Appalachian State (Oct. 30), and 2009 NCAA FCS playoff participant Elon (Nov. 13).

Home contests, meanwhile, include Chattanooga (Oct. 23), Western Carolina (Nov. 6), and Georgia Southern (Nov. 20).

The Citadel contest will highlight Family Weekend, and the Paladins' clash with Chattanooga headlines Homecoming Weekend at Furman.

Kickoff times will be announced at a later date.

Head coach Bobby Lamb's squad will return 13 starters off its 2009 team, which posted a 6-5 record and 5-3 SoCon slate.

2010 FURMAN PALADINS FOOTBALL SCHEDULE

Sept. 11 Colgate

Sept. 18 @ South Carolina

Sept. 25 The Citadel (Family Weekend)

Oct. 2 @ Wofford

Oct. 9 Howard

Oct. 16 @ Samford

Oct. 23 Chattanooga (Homecoming)

Oct. 30 @ Appalachian State

Nov. 6 Western Carolina

Nov. 13 @ Elon

Nov. 20 Georgia Southern