Bragging Rights and Rebuilds in the Big Dog Rivalry
0
0
#image_title
0
0
Dating back to 1916, the rivalry boasts more than a century of competitive energy and South Carolina pride. The Citadel leads the all-time series 45–32–1, but Wofford controlled most of the 21st century with 15 wins in 17 meetings from 2005 to 2023.
That dominance ended last fall, when The Citadel came into Gibbs Stadium and left with a 30–17 victory, snapping Wofford’s recent run and taking the Big Dog Trophy back to Charleston.
“You don’t forget the outcome of this one,” said former Terrier linebacker Michael Mason. “It’s the game you talk about at reunions.” (on3.com)
Coaches Set the Tone
This will mark the third season under current leadership for both schools.
Wofford head coach Shawn Watson has quietly rebuilt a program that had been in flux since the COVID-shortened 2020 campaign. With a focus on consistency, development and team-first accountability, Watson has brought balance to a program once known for its run-heavy, option style.
“We’ve added guys who are hungry and want to compete,” Watson said during spring ball. “Our goal is consistency, and that starts with culture.” (woffordterriers.com)
At The Citadel, Maurice Drayton has used his roots as a former Bulldog defensive back to instill pride, order and local relevance. His team’s win last year was more than a box score stat — it was a validation of a system beginning to take hold.
“This is our heritage,” Drayton said after the 2024 win. “Players, alumni and the city know it. Beating Wofford matters here.” (foxcarolina.com)
Stakes That Go Beyond the Game
With both teams aiming to climb in the Southern Conference standings, the 2025 edition has potential implications for postseason positioning. Furman, Mercer and Chattanooga are preseason favorites, but one or two head-to-head victories can tilt the balance for wildcard hopefuls.
Off the field, both programs often recruit from the same talent pools—particularly South Carolina and Georgia. How this rivalry plays out each year can leave an impression on undecided athletes evaluating culture, competition and coaching fit.
“This is South Carolina football at its purest,” posted one Citadel alum on X.
“The road to respect runs through Charleston,” a Wofford fan added.
Key Contributors on Both Sides
Wofford will lean on JT Fayard, a 6-foot-5 quarterback who brings poise, accuracy and leadership after transferring in from Northwestern State. Sophomore wideout CJ Adams, who once committed to South Carolina, adds explosive potential on the perimeter. The backfield tandem of Elijah Jackson-Anderson and Kyle Parsons offers experience and physicality.
On defense, Maximus Pulley returns as the leader in the secondary, having earned the trust of teammates and coaches with his vocal presence and ability to read opposing schemes.
The Citadel returns Dustin Fletcher at quarterback, another Northwestern State product who showed flashes in 2024 as a dual-threat leader. He’ll continue targeting Javonte Graves-Billips, a possession receiver who moves the chains. On defense, Maurice Bonneau Jr. will cause havoc up front, while Je’Mazin Roberts looks to repeat as one of the SoCon’s leading tacklers.
“We don’t talk about revenge,” Pulley said in July. “But yeah, we remember last year. We remember what they did in our house.” (citadelsports.com)
The Big Dog Trophy
What started as a grassroots tradition has quickly become a fixture of the rivalry. The Big Dog Trophy — featuring miniature mascots and a handcrafted wooden base — was created by alumni and fans. Though unofficial, it now commands real estate in both locker rooms and media previews.
“It’s sitting in our facility right now,” Drayton said earlier this offseason. “And we don’t plan on giving it back.”
The Meaning Behind the Game
It’s more than one win or one Saturday. For players, it’s about legacy. For coaches, it’s about narrative. For fans, it’s about identity.
📊 Companion Graphic: Rivalry Results Since 2000
| Year | Winner | Score | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | The Citadel | 30–17 | Spartanburg |
| 2023 | Wofford | 24–20 | Charleston |
| 2022 | Wofford | 31–14 | Spartanburg |
| 2021 | Wofford | 28–17 | Charleston |
| 2020 | Canceled | — | — |
| 2019 | Wofford | 31–11 | Spartanburg |
📌 Wofford has won 10 of the last 13 meetings.
💬 Quote Wall: Rivalry Voices from Fans and Players
🗣️ “This game always finds a way to get personal.” — @TerrierTalk
🗣️ “It’s like Palmetto State football boiled down to one Saturday.” — @ChucktownCadet
🗣️ “Beat Citadel, and the season feels different. Period.” — former Wofford QB Joe Newman
About the Author
