Eric Mac Lain Called for End of The Paw Tradition
Former offensive lineman urged Clemson to stop fans from gathering at midfield following losses.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Football
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Former Clemson offensive lineman and ACC Network analyst Eric Mac Lain has called for an end to the tradition of fans gathering at The Paw at Memorial Stadium. The request follows a 41-13 loss to Miami.
Why it matters
Mac Lain objects to the practice of opposing fans entering the field to celebrate and damage the turf after Clemson home losses. This tradition, which dates back to the Frank Howard era, has faced criticism due to the physical toll on the playing surface.
Clemson suffered 4 home losses throughout the 2025 season. The recent loss to Miami concluded with a lopsided 41-13 score.
The players
Eric Mac Lain
He is a former Clemson offensive lineman who currently serves as an analyst for the ACC Network.
Frank Howard
He was a legendary Clemson head coach whose era saw the beginning of the tradition of fans gathering at The Paw.
The details
Mac Lain made the comments during an episode of the Gramlich and Mac Lain Podcast on October 6, 2026. He specifically expressed frustration regarding opposing fans rushing the field at Memorial Stadium to celebrate victories and cause damage to the grass.
Timeline
Clemson lost four home games during the 2025 season.
Miami defeated Clemson 41-13 at Memorial Stadium on October 3, 2026.
Eric Mac Lain called for the end of the tradition on October 6, 2026.
Season Trajectory
This call to end the field-storming tradition challenges a practice long associated with the Frank Howard era at Memorial Stadium. It reflects growing concerns over stadium management as the program navigates a challenging stretch following four home losses in the 2025 season.
The proposed change would end the long-standing post-game ritual for visiting fans at Memorial Stadium. This shift could alter post-game safety procedures and field maintenance protocols following future home losses.
The takeaway
The debate highlights the tension between preserving long-standing college traditions and maintaining stadium infrastructure. Fans should monitor whether the university implements new field access restrictions for future home games.
Further reading
For more on the team's current status and updates, visit Clemson Football.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Clemson Insider.
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