Clemson -vs- Carolina

There are some people who have tried to make the point that there is not really anything riding on the 2009 game except for state bragging rites.  To them I say, Really?

For Clemson: 

1. Getting to 9 wins with the potential for 10 if you win the championship game.
2. Mental/Emotional state heading into the championship game.
3. Bowl ramifications if you were to lose the rivalry game and also the championship game.
4. Potential for a Top 10 season.

For Carolina: 

1. knocking off a top 15 ranked rival and sending them to their conference championship game with a Mental/Emotional hangover.
2. With the SEC very down this year, beating Clemson would distinguish them from the herd and significantly improve their chances for a better bowl.
3. 7-5 looks so much better than 6-6.  If you go 6-6 and then lose your bowl game you have a losing season.
4. Mental state looking forward to the off season and the setup for the 2010 season.