Today in 1900: Clemsons 35-0 Win over Bama Capped First Undefeated Season

Nov 29, 2023, 11:23 AM

Clemson football really does have a great history!
(Unlike certain other programs that have a long history of mediocrity at best.)

John Heisman coached Clemson to our first undefeated season. The hyperlink at the bottom links to a great article on Coach Heisman and on that 1900 Clemson team.

Some excerpts from the article on Coach Heisman:

“He invented the hidden ball trick, the handoff, the double lateral and the “Flea flicker.” He pioneered the forward pass, and originated the center snap and the word “hike” (previously the center used to roll the ball on the ground to the quarterback).

Heisman took Clemson to a 19-3-2 record in his four seasons. His .833 winning percentage is still the best in Clemson history. He was also the Clemson baseball coach between 1901-1904.

Clemson was a powerhouse during his tenure and was a most feared opponent. His secret was that he depended on smart, quick players rather than large size and brawn.”

Some excerpts from the article on the 1900 Clemson team:

“On Oct. 22, 1900, Clemson defeated Wofford 21-0. Clemson did have the chance to score even more points, but Clemson and Wofford made a pre-game arrangement that every point Clemson scored after the first four touchdowns would not count (back then touchdowns counted five points). No one could keep an accurate count after Clemson scored its first 21 points within six minutes. All additional touchdowns Clemson made were called back and the ball was given to Wofford deep in Clemson territory.

In an early Clemson-Georgia game, on Nov. 10, 1900, Clemson had to fend off the fans and the Bulldogs in this game as the Tigers defeated Georgia in Athens by a score of 39-5. Before the game started, the Clemson players had to survive a coal barrage thrown by some students from the windows of nearby dorms.”

Picture of Clemson 1900 Football Team: