Not your typical coot story...

Feb 5, 2017, 12:00 AM

I want to tell you a little story about a friend of mine. Now, he is not the typical delusional variety of Gamecock fan that we are so accustomed, but you could argue that he is genuinely optimistic in times that most would consider rather bleak. He always seems to find the upside to every situation when it comes to South Carolina sports, never one to give up. And rightly so, given he's a USC alum and all. He is often complimentary of Clemson, but he, like any true rival fan, will be the first to admit that he pulled the other way. His passion for the Gamecocks is only eclipsed by his passion for music. He is an accomplished musician among other things.

We have known each other for almost 40 years, I guess, living in the same small town where we grew up. Come football season, I can always count on a spirited conversation with him on Facebook. An exchange of jabs, here and there, a chance to brag or poke fun is pretty standard fare between us. Perhaps a nerve is struck on occasion, but it is all in good fun, and I'm sure that neither of us would have it any other way. Certainly, you all have friends like that on the other side.

Today, my old friend made a post on my wall that I would like to share with you. You see, right after the final CFP ranking came out this year, he made a bet with me on Facebook. If Clemson were to beat Ohio State, he would video himself playing Tiger Rag on his trombone "natty style" and post it for all to see.

Well, today he honored that bet in what I feel was an uncommon show of good sportsmanship. I thought I would share it with the rest of my Clemson family. The link is below, I hope you enjoy.