Stanford Player Compares Death Valley to Big Ten School

CLEMSON — When Tristan Sinclair learned Stanford was going to the Atlantic Coast Conference, he started to do his homework.

The Cardinals inside linebacker started to read up on the ACC. He says he is learning more and more every day about the league’s other 17 members.

“Obviously, there are great teams. Strong powerhouse teams. The ACC has great fans and great academics. It is the best of everything. I am excited we are here.”

He is also excited about playing at Clemson’s Memorial Stadium. The Cardinal will make the nearly 2,600-mile trip from Stanford to Clemson on Sept. 28.

When Stanford makes the trip, they will become just the second team from California to play at Death Valley. Long Beach State lost to the Tigers, 59-0, in the 1990 season opener.

“I have just seen the videos of Death Valley,” Sinclair said. “Everyone has seen the videos. Growing up as a kid, I saw Clemson running down the hill, [Howard’s] rock, the balloons, the whole deal,” Sinclair said. “It is loud. I heard it is exciting.

“It is always fun to play in a good environment. I love doing that. To go play in front of a loud crowd, it is awesome.”

From what he has seen on his own from video and television, Sinclair compared Death Valley to Oregon’s Autzen Stadium. His quarterback, Ashton Daniels said the same.

“Oregon is a good, cultured football-school,” Sinclair said. “They have good fans. They have tradition. Definitely reminds me of Oregon. Their fans show up, show out and get loud. It is an awesome place to play.”

–Photo Jim Dedmon / USA TODAY Sports