PHOTOS: USC kicks off football rivalry week with annual Tiger Burn

Tiger Burn marks the start of rivalry week between the University of South Carolina and Clemson University with the burning of a giant wooden tiger. This year's tiger was constructed by students from the American Society of Mechanical Engineers and the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers. The tradition at South Carolina stems from the 1902 upset victory over Clemson where a drawing featuring a gamecock over a beaten tiger frustrated Clemson students, leading to an agreement from both universities to burn the poster. The 2023 Palmetto Bowl will take place on Nov. 25 at 7:30 p.m. in Williams-Brice Stadium.

A wooden tiger burns in front of Williams-Brice Stadium on Nov. 20, 2023. The idea of Tiger Burn at the University of South Carolina is rooted in the 1902 football upset victory over Clemson University.

Cocky waves goodbye to the burning tiger on Nov. 20, 2023. Cocky celebrated rivalry week events along with the cheerleading team, the Carolina Coquettes and members of the Carolina Band.

Fourth-year political science student Citlaly Rojo dances alongside her brother, John Rojo, who visited her to attend Tiger Burn on Nov. 20, 2023. The university provided shuttles to transport students to and from the event from the Horseshoe.

Head football coach Shane Beamer speaks to students and local Gamecock fans at Tiger Burn on Nov. 20, 2023. Beamer said fans have an impact on games at Williams-Brice Stadium and encouraged people to attend Saturday's game.

University of South Carolina students watch and record the wooden tiger go up in flames at the annual Tiger Burn celebration. The burning tiger was accompanied by fireworks and other festivities on Nov. 20, 2023.

Fireworks go off as the wooden tiger — constructed by the USC chapter of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers and the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers — is set aflame. The tiger has been built to be more than 30 feet tall for several years.

Fourth-year public health student Ameila Heipler dances to Christmas music following Tiger Burn on Nov. 20, 2023. Music was played throughout the event by DJ Zay Pola, a USC alumnus.

The frame of a charred tiger stands in front of Williams-Brice Stadium after the annual Tiger Burn. South Carolina will conclude its season on Saturday when it takes on rival Clemson on Nov. 25, 2023, at 7:30 p.m.