The critical stretch of the 2017 season begins Saturday night with yet another high profile battle featuring the Clemson Tigers facing a formidable SEC foe. These types of games have become more commonplace as Dabo Swinney has elevated the program to an elite status. Part of his plan is seeking a major non conference game every year in addition to the end of season rivalry with USCjr. Auburn has served as a frequent opponent as this is the fifth time since 2010 the two have met. Clemson lost the first game to the eventual national champion and Cam Newton led Auburn Tigers in OT but has since gone 3-0 in the series and won a national title of its own.