Clemson's Danny Ford to coach Upstate team in inaugural S.C. All Star Bowl

Two of the state's living coaching legends - Clemson's Danny Ford and South Carolina State's Willie Jeffries - will pair off armed with some of the state's best college seniors in the inaugural South Carolina All Star Bowl, which will be played at North Greenville University in Tigerville, S.C. on March 23, 2013.

Ford will coach the Upstate team, while Jeffries will coach the Lowcountry stars. Players from South Carolina colleges, as well as players from S.C. who played their college football out of state, will be eligible for selection to the game.

The game, which is set for 3 p.m. at Younts Stadium, will be televised statewide by WMYA-40.

Former NFL head coach Sam Wyche is serving as commissioner for the unique event.

“This is a one of a kind game,” said Wyche. “South Carolina puts more professionals into the NFL than just about every other state in the country. We are highlighting some of the best in this game.”

In addition to showcasing some of the best current football players, the South Carolina College All Star Bowl is creating a South Carolina College Football Hall of Fame to honor the Palmetto State’s greatest legends. The inaugural class will have eight players and be announced in March as part of the game weekend.

Wyche said he expects dozens of professional scouts to attend the game.

“The South Carolina College All Star Bowl gives these promising student athletes one more chance to showcase their skills in their home state, in front of the very fans who cheered them on,” Wyche said. “It is also gives them a terrific opportunity to take their game to the next level. The game is purposefully set in March 2013 - after the NFL Combine and before the 2013 NFL Draft.”

In addition to Wyche, Ford and Jeffries, former collegiate stars George Rogers, Patrick Sapp, Brandon Bennett and Woodrow Dantzler will serve as mentors to the players as they prepare for the game.

Clemson and University of South Carolina broadcasters Will Merritt and Todd Ellis will provide commentary for the game.

In addition to being a showcase for the state's college seniors, the game also will serve as a fundraiser for Meals on Wheels, which provides meals, companionship and supervision to thousands of South Carolina residents daily.