Howard's Rock, College Football Symbol, Vandalized and Broken

Howard's Rock, the iconic symbol of college football at Clemson University, was defaced and vandalized last week, according to reports. The rock, which players would rub for good luck before entering Memorial Stadium, was missing a piece when officials discovered it.

Howard's Rock was apparently vandalized either June 2nd or 3rd, according to ESPN. The culprit removed the Plexiglass casing and somehow broke off a substantial piece of the rock, leaving the protective cover on the ground near the gate. However, police were able to locate a partial fingerprint on the rock, Lt. Gary Leslie of the Clemson University Police Department said.

"It is very disappointing that someone would disrespect our unique tradition to this extent," Clemson coach Dabo Swinney said in a statement. "It is one of the iconic images of the game. I am sure Clemson police will investigate this thoroughly and hold the person accountable for this behavior."

The rock was found vandalized by two Clemson employees who went to take pictures with it, according to sports director Tim Bourret. About 15 percent of the rock was gone, but it is unknown what kind of tool the suspects used to break or cut the rock.

The Clemson Tigers have a longstanding tradition of rubbing the rock for good luck going all the way back to 1966. Back then Coach Frank Howard told players to "give 110 percent" or not to touch the rock at all.

"We will still have our tradition of rubbing the rock and running down the hill," Bourret said.

Security cameras and alarm systems are now being considered to prevent future cases of vandalism.