Conference Realignment and the Fate of the UNC‑South Carolina Series
The Atlantic Coast Conference announced that the scheduled football series between the University of North Carolina and the University of South Carolina for the 2028 and 2029 seasons will be discontinued.
The decision stems from new scheduling regulations imposed by both the SEC and the ACC, which now require member institutions to play a greater number of conference contests and to schedule at least one Power Four opponent each year.
The ACC’s transition to a nine‑game league slate has amplified scheduling complexity, especially given the conference’s existing rivalries and its arrangement that guarantees Notre Dame at least five matchups per season.
South Carolina’s traditional showdown with Clemson also factored into the decision, as the Gamecocks’ annual rivalry added another layer of constraints to the conference’s calendar.
Historically, North Carolina holds a 36‑20‑4 edge over South Carolina, and the most recent encounter in the 2023 season opener saw the Tar Heels defeat the Gamecocks 31‑17.