Spurs & Feathers 105 by Spurs & Feathers

october 5, 2016 • Volume 38 • Issue 9 • $1.50

Gamecocks give No. 9 Texas A&M all they can handle Postmaster: Time sensitive material. Please expedite

Crowe: ‘Any day I’m at Carolina baseball it’s a great day’ (page 20) Publication mailed from Columbia on Monday, October 3

2 • Spurs & Feathers

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October 5, 2016

Please Read: Editor’s note Please note that we are weekly for the rest of the football season (except for the open date). Please also make sure to email bhand@spursandfeathers.com whenever you have a meeting for inclusion in our editions and on SpursandFeathers.com. Per our contract with the Gamecock Club, below are our remaining edition dates for the 2016 year. Forever to Thee! Spurs & Feathers schedule Oct. 5 newspaper

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To subscribe: Please call 800-559-2311; annual subscription price is $50 Ellen Priest Publisher/Advertising Director Aiken Communications, Inc. epriest@aikenstandard.com (803) 644-2345 Brian Hand Executive Editor bhand@spursandfeathers.com (803) 335-1399 Ext. 506 Kyle Heck Reporter kheck@spursandfeathers.com (803) 335-1399 Ext. 506 Kathy Boyette Advertising Sales Manager (803) 295-3654 kboyette@spursandfeathers.com Brooks Rogers Advertising Representative (803) 446-4022 brooks@spursandfeathers.com Ed Girardeau Contributing Editor/ Advertising Account Executive ed@spursandfeathers.com (803) 646-9807 Photographers Allen Sharpe and Jenny Dilworth Cover Design Brian Hand (Photo by Allen Sharpe) Postal Information: SPURS & FEATHERS (USPS 12779) (ISSN 7454368X) is published 20 times annually. The frequency is monthly in January, April and July. The publication is weekly from September-November. SPURS & FEATHERS also publishes two slick-paper magazine issues — one in August and one in December. The annual subscription price is $50 for non Gamecock Club members. Members of the Gamecock Club receive a discounted subscription as a member benefit. Spurs & Feathers is published by Aiken Communications, Inc., 326 Rutland Drive NW, Aiken, SC, 29801-4010. Periodicals postage paid at Columbia, SC

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Pictured from left-to-right is Meredith Blackwell, Deborah Blackwell Munchmeyer and Bill Blackwell. Up front is 3-year-old William Munchmeyer, who was attending his first South Carolina football game. William is a member of the Junior Gamecock Club.

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Spurs & Feathers • 3

October 5, 2016

Being a Gamecock family is something to truly cherish by brian hand Executive Editor

8-year-old son Alexander even tagged along with me to surprise him in Greenville. As one would expect among a family of As I turned 36 this past week, lately I have South Carolina fans the birthday celebrabeen doing a lot of thinking. tion included the Gamecocks as we watched I know 36 still makes me quite young South Carolina men’s soccer easily best in the grand scheme of things, but I think then No. 18 Furman, 3-0, in Greenville on more than my age increasing it is the fact the evening. After the match, I was also that my dad just a week before I turned 36 even able to introduce my dad to South reached the age of 60. Carolina men’s soccer head coach Mark My parents always made sure that all of Berson. us in my family knew that we were GameLast weekend, we celebrated my dad’s cocks. There was not another option. 60th birthday as a family in Columbia with It’s why I do what I do to be honest, and family pictures with my parents, my brother now that I have children of my own I have and sister and their families before eating passed along that love of the Gamecocks to lunch as a family. them. After lunch, once again it was about the Seeing my children get excited to see Gamecocks as we visited Founders Park to Cocky and make sure to tell everyone that catch some of the baseball scrimmage on we only cheer on the Gamecocks warms my that beautiful day. heart. That day, I noticed as much as ever how For my dad’s birthday on Sept. 20, my blessed we were to be Gamecocks as you

photo by brian hand

Alexander at the 3-0 South Carolina men’s soccer win over No. 18 Furman in Greenville. had my 60-year-old father, three children under four, my 8-year-old and two 30-something males in myself and my brother-in-law, Chris, all in attendance and all Gamecocks. My 4-year-old niece Tinley and my 2-year-old daughter Brynlee were both in

Gamecock cheerleading outfits and my 3-year-old nephew Samuel along with Alexander were both relishing the opportunity to take in the baseball game while also playing on the playground at Founders Park. Our family gift to my dad for his birthday was even a signed basketball by South Carolina men’s basketball head coach Frank Martin. The next day, along with my wife, Amy, we took our two children to the Junior Gamecock Club Fall Sports Party where they had the chance to hang out with Cocky and current Gamecock student-athletes before the undefeated South Carolina women’s soccer team picked up a dominating 3-0 SEC win over Kentucky. On the weekend overall though, it was not about wins and losses, but rather enjoying being a Gamecock family. That’s what it’s really all about. Being a Gamecock is truly special, and I am forever thankful.

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October 5, 2016

Gamecocks give No. 9 Texas A&M all they can handle in loss to Aggies by brian hand Executive Editor COLUMBIA - South Carolina gave them all they could handle, but in the end it was No. 9 Texas A&M that was able to pick up the 24-13 victory before a crowd of 78,245 at Williams-Brice Stadium. “They’ve got a really good football team,” South Carolina head football coach Will Muschamp said after the Gamecock loss to the Aggies. “I’m really proud of our guys and how they competed in the game and continued to fight and battle.” Muschamp knows though at the end of the day despite South Carolina’s tremendous efforts it’s still all about wins and losses. “Our guys fought hard, but we’re not in this for a consolation prize,” Muschamp said. “We’re in this to win, and that’s the bottom line. We want to win now, and we want to do what we need to do (to win). I thought we made a lot of improvements from last week, especially on the offensive side of the ball, but give those guys credit they made plays and their coaches did a good job when they needed and we came up short.” The Gamecocks (2-3, 1-3 SEC) won the toss in the game and elected to receive the football. It was the right move as on the first play from scrimmage for the Gamecocks running back A.J. Turner took the ball to the house to give South Carolina a 7-0 lead just 13 seconds into the contest. The 75-yard run was the longest of Turner’s career and was the 10th-longest rushing touchdown in South Carolina history. The Aggies (5-0, 3-0 SEC) would respond to South Carolina’s opening touchdown by evening things up at 7-7 on their first offensive series. A four-yard quarterback keeper by Texas A&M’s Trevor Knight with 12:31 left in the first quarter for the touchdown was the final play of a seven-play, 75-yard drive for the Aggies that lasted 2:16. Both South Carolina and Texas A&M would have their chances the rest of the first half, but those two touchdowns would prove to be all of the scoring in the first half as the two would enter intermission still tied up at 7-7. South Carolina finished with 167 yards of total offense to Texas A&M’s 206 in the first half, but the Gamecocks out-rushed the Aggies, 124-65, in the first half. The Gamecocks owned a 16:56-13:04 advantage in time of possession in the inaugural half of

photo by allen sharpe

action. The second half would open with Texas A&M taking a 14-7 lead on its first offensive possession. Running back Trayveon Williams collected the touchdown for the Aggies when his 49-yard touchdown run completed an eight-play, 71-yard scoring drive for Texas A&M that took 3:23 off the clock. The Gamecocks on their first offensive possession of the second half looked to be going three and out, but a gutsy fake punt call led to punter Sean Kelly connecting with a streaking Hayden Hurst down the left sideline for a 36-yard gain. The Gamecocks from there would put themselves in scoring position, but Elliott Fry’s 44-yard field goal attempt missed wide right to leave the Aggies ahead 14-7. South Carolina would not have to wait long though to make amends for that missed field goal with the Gamecock defense coming on big on Texas A&M’s next offensive posses-

sion. Darius English forced Knight into a fumble and then Chris Moody returned the football 20 yards to the Texas A&M 28-yard line. The Gamecocks would not be able to get much going on the scoring drive, but with the opportune field position, Fry was able to connect on a 43-yard field goal to pull the Gamecocks within four at 14-10 with 3:14 left in the third quarter. The Aggies would open up the final quarter of the game by taking a 21-10 lead with 11:40 left in the fourth quarter after a James White two-yard touchdown run. The touchdown run completed a nine-play, 52-yard drive that lasted 3:09. The Gamecocks looked as if they may get at least three back shortly thereafter on a well-orchestrated drive by Perry Orth in his first action of the game, but a Fry 43-yard field goal attempt hit the right upright to leave the score at 21-10 with 8:36 left in the contest.

Once again, Fry would make up for the miss by nailing a 43-yard field goal with 4:23 left in the game to set the score at 21-13 in favor of Texas A&M. The 43-yard made field goal by Fry completed an eight-play, 57-yard scoring drive for South Carolina that took just 2:25 off the clock. The Gamecocks would force Texas A&M into a punting situation on their next offensive possession, but South Carolina’s Jamarcus King fumbled the return to the Aggies, who obtained prime field position at the Gamecock 30-yard line with 3:20 remaining in the contest. The Aggies would be able to take advantage with Daniel LaCamera connecting on a 35-yard field goal to finish off a five-play, 13-yard drive that lasted 1:39. The field goal garnered Texas A&M a 24-13 advantage they would never relinquish with 1:41 left in the game. Turner led the Gamecocks in the game with 113 yards rushing on 10 carries. He had the one rushing touchdown on the 75-yard run. The performance marked the first 100-yard or more game of Turner’s career. Orth put together an impressive performance in his limited action, going 11-of-18 and passing for 138 yards. McIlwain passed for 34 yards and ran for seven more. He was 9-of-15 with one interception overall. Once again, Gamecock tight end Hayden Hurst led all in the game with 90 yards receiving on five catches. D.J. Smith led the Gamecocks with a career-best nine total tackles, while King and Bryson Allen-Williams each had seven tackles in the contest. Knight was 23-of-40 with 206 yards passing to go along with 84 yards rushing and the one rushing touchdown. Williams ran for 98 yards on 14 carries to go along with his touchdown run. Christian Kirk was Knight’s top target in the game, hauling in 12 catches for 61 yards. Jeremy Tabuyo had four catches for 89 yards for the Aggies. Overall, South Carolina finished with 378 yards of total offense on 70 plays. The Aggies had 422 yards of total offense on 79 plays. The Gamecocks finished the loss holding a 31:47-28:13 advantage in terms of time of possession. South Carolina will next welcome Georgia to Williams-Brice Stadium for a 7:30 p.m. game on Saturday, Oct. 8. The game will be televised by the SEC Network.

Spurs & Feathers • 5

October 5, 2016

Lettermen on being involved in Gamecock Walk: ‘It means the world’

by brian hand Executive Editor

Prior to the start of the traditional Gamecock Walk on Oct. 1 you could see the moment meant a ton to the South Carolina lettermen in attendance as nobody could contain their smiles. “It means the world,” former Gamecock captain and current USC Association of Lettermen president Moe Brown (2006-09) told Spurs & Feathers of first-year South Carolina head coach Will Muschamp asking the lettermen to participate in the Gamecock Walk before the Texas A&M game on Saturday, Oct. 1. “A lot of these guys have felt that we should be more involved and want to be, and if you open up the gate, we’re going to respond,” the former Gamecock wide receiver said. “We’re athletes. We live and die with the players year in and year out, and it’s important for them to know who we are and the brothers that came before them because when they finish up they’re going to have the same connection

photo by jenny dilworth

as well.” Former Gamecock two-sport star Jeff Grantz (1973-75) is incredibly thankful Muschamp has made it a point to include the former lettermen in their efforts. “I think Will Muschamp is awesome,” the former Gamecock quarterback and South Carolina Athletics Hall of Fame member said. “He’s engulfed us into this process, and we’re

really excited that he’s embracing us to be a part of this thing. It’s beautiful. We’ll be here, and we understand that if we win or lose that it’s a process in motion.” The same can be said for former Gamecock Punky Holler (1960-62), who could not be more appreciative of the lengths that Muschamp and his staff have gone since their arrival to incorporate the lettermen.

Holler notes Muschamp even goes out of his way to connect with many of the former lettermen at their meetings at a local Columbia restaurant. “I think it’s great,” the former Green Bay Packer and Pittsburgh Steeler said. “I think it should have been done a lot earlier than this. He’s really doing a great job. Sometimes he comes to the Mousetrap and meets with us and everything. He’s really a great pro, and he’s doing all he can to win.” The call for the former Gamecocks to participate in the Gamecock Walk was not made until just a couple of days before the Oct. 1 game with Texas A&M, which is why having such a large grouping there to Brown just shows how much they appreciate the opportunity. “We had easily about 40-45 former lettermen that showed up, which is impressive since (the opportunity to be a part of walk) went out Thursday, so this type of showing just shows that the guys want to be involved and they appreciate the efforts of having us come back,” Brown said.

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October 5, 2016

Gourmet Gents Grub of the Week Reese’s Peanut Butter Cookie Dough Dip

INGREDIENTS: 1/2 cup unsalted butter 1/2 cup light brown sugar 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter 8 oz cream cheese, softened 3/4 cup powdered sugar 1 tsp vanilla extract 1/2 cup semi sweet mini chocolate chips 8oz pkg Reese’s peanut butter cup Minis (or about 1 1/2 cup chopped Reeses Cups) DIRECTIONS: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Whisk in the sugar and heat until sugar dissolves (about one minute). Remove from heat immediately add vanilla and allow to cool to room temperature (very important). In a large mixing bowl, beat cream cheese with powdered sugar and peanut butter until creamy (about 3-4 minutes, don’t skimp on the beating time). On low, add in brown sugar mixture (that has cooled to room temperature). Mix until combined. Fold in mini chocolate chips and mini Reese’s cups. Serve immediately or store in refrigerator until ready to serve. Enjoy with pretzels, animal cracker and graham sticks. About the Gourmet Gents Who are we? A few families who randomly met at Williams-Brice Stadium that enjoy doing it big (and just for fun) in the parking lot for the Gamecocks. Follow us on Twitter and Instagram at @Gourmet_Gents. Go Gamecocks!

Looking ahead to Georgia by kyle heck Reporter

For the first time since 2012, South Carolina will host a home night game against rival Georgia. The last time that happened, as many Gamecock fans will remember, South Carolina used a tremendous start to romp to a 35-7 win in a top10, nationally-televised battle. This year, the Gamecocks will once again need a special performance to knock off the talented Bulldogs. Georgia is led by junior tailback Nick Chubb, one of the best running backs in the country. In just six games last season before a season-ending knee injury, Chubb rushed for 747 yards and seven touchdowns - on just 92 carries. Sony Michel is also another talented tailback, as well as freshman Brian Herrien, who’s gotten off to a tremendous start to his career. While the run game is the bread and butter of the Georgia offense, freshman quarterback Jacob Eason is one of the

photo by juan blas

most talented signal-callers the Bulldogs have ever had. Receiver Isaiah McKenzie is easily Eason’s favorite target, and so far Georgia has struggled to find a consistent threat out wide to step up behind McKenzie. While the overall results don’t stand out for the Bulldog defense, they have several

playmakers on that side of the ball. On the defensive line, Trenton Thompson is a force to be reckoned with. He was one of the top recruits out of high school a year ago, and so far has had an impressive sophomore campaign. Outside linebackers Lorenzo Carter and Davin Bellamy do a good job of creating pressure on opposing

quarterbacks as well. Safety Quincy Mauger and corner Juwan Briscoe have been good secondary guys for Georgia so far, as well as Malkom Parrish, giving the Bulldogs a solid core in the defensive secondary. On special teams, the Bulldogs are a bit shaky at the the placekicker position. William Ham has shown an ability to hit the short field goals, but not so much the longer ones. McKenzie is a dangerous punt returner that the Gamecocks need to keep an eye on. In the last meeting between the two teams, Georgia was able to pull away for a 52-20 victory in Athens last season. However, the Gamecocks have won three straight games at home against Georgia with the Bulldogs not escaping Columbia with a win since September of 2008. The last meeting at Williams-Brice resulted in an exciting 38-35 victory for South Carolina. Kickoff this year is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. and can be seen on the SEC Network.

October 5, 2016

Spurs & Feathers • 7

Moore: No excuses; just a plan of action to get it right

the rest of us off the hook. Belichick and his teams don’t live in that universe of excuses and that’s why they “win anyway.” Focusing on excuses, even little ones takes the attention of execution of what a team/organization can do now! Belichick may seem like a damp wool blanket with his demeanor, but behind closed doors he’s demanding more from everyone else on the team as if they had their best player. Our head coach demands the same daily from the players in every meeting and practice. This staff focuses on execution and effort not excuses. Being so close to victory these players have to demand more of themselves individually and as a team. Ask more of themselves in their preparation, execution and focus. Will this turn the Gamecocks into the New England Patriots of the college ranks this season … who knows. But I do know it will make our players better and lead us towards our eventual goal of championphoto by jenny dilworth ships, excuses won’t and you won’t find them What changed teams from being winners and vital but how many NFL teams have used the here. “I want great effort, toughness and discilosers or remaining the same is … excuse, “we don’t have a franchise QB” excuse as to especially pertaining to the players on the why they stink? I know two of the franchises pline and urgency and energy in everything we do regardless of the circumstances. You field who execute. As Jim Rohn puts it: “if I played for used this for years to justify the come to work every day and work extremely you really want to do something, you’ll find “why,” when really it was an excuse. In my a way; if you don’t you’ll find an excuse.” In own personal experience, when everyone in hard. That’s what you do.” - Will Muschamp changing the direction of a program/organi- the organization hears the media and fans Forever to Thee... zation you have to purge the excuses and the repeat that “once we get a QB” excuse, it lets excuse mentality and this staff won’t allow it... You’re not going to hear it come out of Muschamp’s mouth or anyone else’s mouth on this team. With “champ” in your name, Official Clothier of Todd Ellis, Voice of the Gamecocks I’m sure he couldn’t make excuses if he wanted to, probably wasn’t born with that The Block C default like some of us. But what you will Collection hear are facts, but not excuses. You will hear by Southern Tide “a plan of action” to fix it, you will hear an Available in white, enthusiasm to get it right. black, garnet, “Going forward the guys are going to do and multi-stripe it the Gamecock way and that’s with effort, toughness and discipline.” - Will Muschamp “As long as you have an excuse, you’ll look for reasons why you can’t succeed.” Lou Holtz The thing about excuses is it keeps you from finding solutions. There’s plenty of “reSmathers & Branson al world” examples but we’re going to keep Limited Edition this football focused. The best example that “BOOM” Hat and Keybob comes to mind, the New England Patriots. They lose their all-world QB to a four-game suspension from something that happened two seasons ago (so … win anyway). Insert a Exclusively at backup QB that plays like he wants the starting QB job. After winning two games he gets hurt (so … win anyway). Insert another QB that’s a rookie, he picks up right where the team left off, leading the Pats to a 3-0 start. 2818 Devine Street • Columbia That 3rd string QB gets hurt, my guess is (803) 771-2700 they will “win anyway” regardless who takes www.BrittonsOfColumbia.com the snaps in week 4. Now we know QB’s are Phone Orders Welcome

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“I’m not really in the excuse business.” Bill Parcells Not many high achievers make a living by trafficking excuses. Come to think of it parents, teachers, bosses, coaches don’t do “excuses” either. Using an “excuse” as a verb to “lessen the blame or justify” actions why you haven’t gotten the results expected never won any games. Using it as a noun to “explain justify a fault” of a player or unit won’t do any good it either. Sure we could blame the rosLangston Moore ter, the schedContributing ule, injuries, Writer inexperience, there all convenient copouts. Always available, always present, but that’s a losers game. If you don’t know by now after reading this every week (you haven’t been reading this every week?! Why not, what’s your excuse?!!!), I’m wellversed on losing football games and how teams do it. My co-author and Gamecock captain Preston Thorne and I have been trying to validate this through the Guinness book of records but they won’t call us back. Anyway the difference between winning and losing can seem vast but the margin for error is “hair-thin”. This team playing so many young players and first-year guys, you have to do everything right all the time. It’s easy to have excuses for losing, but no one ever has an excuse for winning, no one ever asks for one. If I told you during the preseason this is what our record would be at this juncture after last year, you would take it. Equaling the number of conference wins, and almost matching the entire win total from the previous season with seven more games to go. Five of them home games at Williams-Brice. No one would say “what’s your excuse for winning those 2 games.” We only ask for excuses when we lose or when things don’t go as we expect. “Winners don’t need to make excuses, and they don’t have time because they are too busy finding solutions.” - Lou Holtz We have“winners” leading this program and they don’t make excuses, not this staff. Like I mentioned having been part of some abysmal teams I can tell you what winners do and what losers do, or don’t do. I’ve been on both sides of the equation: being part of a new regime who is supposed to usher in change. And being on the other side, a holdover from the bad teams with a new leader looking to rid the “bad” from their program.

8 • Spurs & Feathers

October 5, 2016

South Carolina Gamecocks

Recruiting Round-up By Phil Kornblut

OL Jerry Drake Jr. (6-6 310) of Palm Beach Gardens, FL was recently offered by USC and will take an official visit with the Gamecocks for the Texas A&M game. Along with USC, Drake said he has recently been hearing from Mississippi State, Tennessee, Pittsburgh, North Carolina, South Florida and West Virginia. Drake said he communicates regularly with USC offensive line coach Shawn Elliott and head coach Will Muschamp. “I mean, I like the school. I like their football program a lot, like, the trainers and the way coach Elliott coaches,” Drake said. “I want to be in school for engineering, so I’m going to check out the school for the academics and the engineering program. That, and the school as a whole, like the community and if the team gets along.” Drake hopes to Phil Kornblut have his decision before Contributing December or January. Writer DE Matthew Butler of Garner, NC will see two of his favorites go head to head when he visits USC for the Texas A&M game. But this will be an unofficial visit, not official. Butler will visit with his mom and other members of his family. Butler had originally planned to make an official visit to USC and may still do that down the road. He said if this visit goes well enough and he feels good enough about things there won’t be a need for an official visit. If not, he may return for an official visit. Texas A&M has recently emerged as a major player with Butler. Defensive coordinator John Chavis checked on him last spring and has remained in regular contact. If Butler decides not to return to USC for an official visit, he could use that for a trip to College Station. Butler has taken official visits to Duke and Penn State and he said he will take two other officials to Tennessee and NC State as planned. DB Naytron Culpepper of Miami has rescheduled his official visit to USC to the weekend of the Georgia game on October 8th. Culpepper was originally planning to visit for the Texas A&M game but said the visit dates “got messed up” and had to reschedule. When asked what he is looking forward to most about his visit to USC, Culpepper said the entire in-game atmosphere. “The whole thing,” Culpepper said. “Seeing the coaches on the sidelines and just the game experience.” Culpepper is still frequently hearing from the USC coaching staff and said he last spoke with head coach Will Muschamp and defensive backs coach Travaris Robinson a couple of days ago via texts and phone calls. Along with USC, Culpepper said he is still hearing from Utah, Mississippi State and

Michigan State the most. As for his other official visits, Culpepper is still on schedule to visit Maryland October 15th and Michigan State November 19th. He does not have his other two official visits planned at this point. DE Aaron Sterling (6-2 260) of Tucker, GA decommitted from Alabama last week. USC has been one of the schools to continue to recruit him despite his previous commitment and that diligence is working in the Gamecocks favor as they stand to get an official visit from him later in the year. “I know that he does have some interest,” said Tucker coach Bryan Lamar. “He’s definitely not telling me he’s ready to commit or anything like that but they definitely are one of the teams he’s looking at. He hasn’t scheduled any officials yet. I do believe South Carolina will be one of them. We really haven’t narrowed it down. He just kind of opened it back up.” Along with USC, NC State, Tennessee, Georgia and Alabama remain in the mix. He visited NC State earlier this month. USC recruiter Mike Peterson was by the school recently to check on Sterling and Lamar said the Gamecocks see him as a defensive end, outside linebacker prospect or a hybrid. Lamar also is close friends with Gamecock defensive coordinator Travaris Robinson. DL Romello Martin of Brooklyn, NY has his five official visits in mind with USC, Florida, Ole Miss, Tennessee and Miami. He has visited USC and Florida unofficially already. He said he might get one official in during the season and the rest after the season. Martin said he hears regularly from all five and he has USC, Florida and Ole Miss as the top three. . DB Johnathan Abram of Jones County JC, MS has set his official visit to USC for October 8th according to TheBigSpur.com. He was at Ole Miss this past Saturday unofficially. Wilson DE Xavier Thomas will wear the crown of the nation’s top prospect for 2018 in the opinion of a majority of national recruiting analysts. Right now Thomas lists USC, Clemson and Georgia as his top three. Ohio State and Florida State also are high up on his list. He visited USC for the East Carolina game. “He enjoyed the visit and enjoyed the atmosphere,” Wilson coach Thomas Balkcom said. “He likes what’s going on there and he enjoyed the visit.” Thomas was at Georgia earlier this month and he plans to visit Clemson for the Louisville game Saturday. USC and Clemson, of course, have made Thomas a priority and this promises to be a good, old-fashioned in-state recruiting battle. “If you’re an in-state school and you have a talent like Xavier Thomas, you’re going to have to do and should be trying to do everything you can to make sure he lands on your campus,” Balkcom said. “I’m certain that those guys will recruit him as hard as they can. I’m certain he’s listening. His ears are open.

Those guys are going to do whatever they have to do as far as being around, being visible and making sure he feels welcome when he’s on the campus. He loves the state of South Carolina, he loves his family, and he wants to represent them well wherever he goes.” 2018 DL Rick Sandidge (6-5 273) of Concord, NC visited USC for the East Carolina game. He’s a teammate of Gamecock 2017 commitment DB Hamsah Nasirildeen and he’s thinking strongly about joining him in Columbia one day. He also likes North Carolina a great deal at the moment. Bobby Bentley is recruiting Sandidge for USC and he’s gotten a good vibe from him and the rest of the staff for his interactions. “They treat me and my family like family,” he said. “It’s an amazing atmosphere.” Sandidge said no one else stands out to him besides USC and North Carolina but he expects to add to that list as he takes more visits. Among his other offers are Ohio State, Virginia Tech, Alabama, Michigan, East Carolina, Duke, Penn State, Florida State, NC State, Louisville, Florida and West Virginia. He plans to take visits to Virginia Tech, Florida State, North Carolina and Ohio State in future weeks. He’d like to make his decision next spring around the end of his junior year in high school. 2018 RB RaShawn Allen of Orchard Lake, MI has had contact from USC. He’s also hearing from Notre Dame, Northwestern, Michigan, Michigan State, Toledo, Western Michigan, Miami of Ohio, Vanderbilt, Syracuse and Virginia. 2018 DB Steven Gilmore Jr. of South Pointe is the brother of former Gamecock star and current Buffalo Bills cornerback Stephon Gilmore. He has an offer from USC. He said he’s also hearing from Virginia Tech, Virginia, NC State and North Carolina. 2018 RB Mateo Durant (6-0 183) of McCormick said he’s having contact from USC, Florida State, North Carolina, Wake Forest, Duke, Navy, Purdue, Virginia, Oregon and Appalachian State. 2018 OL Gunner Britton (6-6 275) of Conway attended the USC-East Carolina game. 2018 QB Shelton Applewhite of Wayne, NJ (63 175) has drawn interest from USC, Pittsburgh, Indiana and Penn State. USC offered 2019 WR Jamario Holley of Northwestern and 2020 RB Blake Corum of Laurel, MD. Basketball News: You had me at hello. That pretty much sums up the recruiting relationship between USC basketball coach Frank Martin and his newest recruit 6-8 Ibrahim Doumbia, a Mali native who attends Miami Country Day. Martin and Doumbia first met two years ago when Doumbia was at Arlington Country Day in Jacksonville playing for the late Rex Morgan, a good friend of Martin’s. “He was the first college coach to shake his hand,” said

Miami Country Day coach Hugo DeLaRosa. “He told the kid, you’re going to be a heck of a player one day son. He was excited about that. He was like, wow, the first college coach to shake my hand. This is why I came here. And he actually expressed that in the last few weeks.” Martin got a close up look at Doumbia last December when Country Day played in the Bojangle’s Bash tournament at Ridge View. He and his assistants watched all four games and came away convinced Doumbia was a fit for them. “His next statement was, the kid’s on the board,” DeLaRosa said. “He (Martin) was the guy who spearheaded his recruitment and Perry Clark, since the official visit, has developed a tremendous relationship with the young man. He loves Perry.” On the official visit, Doumbia got a look at the Darla Moore School of Business and that was key for him because his plan is to major in international business, a program in which USC has consistently ranked #1 nationally. “Education is is my major key so my decision is from that,” Doumbia said. “South Carolina has a great international business program and I love that. And basketball, I feel and I can see that this program is full of good guys that are going to push me to my limits to get the best out of me which will help me to reach my goals. It’s a hard working program.” Doumbia was already friends with some of the Gamecock players and that added to his comfort level with the program. And he also favors the style of play he has seen from Martin’s teams. “He was sold when he watched practice,” DeLaRosa said. “He met with the players, he knows some of the players there. He knows PJ (Perry Dozier) very, very well. He knows (Chris) Silva very well. He knows KG (Khadim Gueye) very well. There’s a camaraderie even though he’s not attached to the team. He just liked the way the practice was conducted and they way they work. The sweat equity, as I call it, that they invest. That’s who he is. High motor. He’s going to be a heck of a player in the Southeast Conference.” Doumbia averaged 18 points per game last season and has the flexibility to play inside and on the wing. His coach loves his outside game. “He shoots it as well as anybody in the country at that position,” DeLaRosa said. “He physically kisses the rim. He’s a phenomenal, freakish athlete. His motor is very high. He fits right in with what Coach Martin does and likes. His guys are hard working guys and that’s what attracted him to South Carolina and being coached by Frank Martin.” Thursday was Doumbia’s 18th birthday but it’s Martin who got the present with his second commitment for his 2017 class. 6-3 Devontae Shuler of Oak Hill Prep, VA made an unofficial visit to Oklahoma State last weekend. He’s also been to USC and is scheduled CONTINUED ON PAGE 11

October 5, 2016

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10 • Spurs & Feathers

October 5, 2016

A major impact every summer: ‘8K in 8 Days’ campaign a huge success by brian hand Executive Editor

joyed their time with the basketball team would be an understatement. “You have no idea how cool this is for South Carolina men’s basketball head these guys,” said Leigh Lowery, the director coach Frank Martin knows it all “goes handof communications for Special Olympics in-hand.” South Carolina. “One of the main principles He is well aware that ultimately he is of Special Olympics is unified sports, and going to be judged by wins and losses at we talk about living unified. This tonight is South Carolina, but he also knows that he the prime example of living unified. It’s so has a much bigger responsibility to prepare important for our athletes to feel included. his student-athletes for life, and one of the That’s why unified sports is so important unique ways that Gamecock men’s basketbecause you play as a team. It’s a really cool ball has continued to do this is through their experience for our guys as well as the men’s annual “8K in 8 Days” campaign. basketball team.” This year’s “8K in 8 Days” ran from July Along with the basketball workouts, the 6-13, and as in the past the goal was to reach Special Olympic athletes on Tuesday, July 8,000 fans in the greater Columbia commu12, were able to receive autographs from the nity and the Palmetto State with community players, and Martin took the time to take a outreach over the course of the eight days. picture with every single one of the Special “I’ve got to win games for me to keep my Olympic athletes. job,” Martin said. “I understand that. But I Justin McKie of the South Carolina men’s still have a responsibility to educate my playbasketball team was just as thrilled to be ers every day. It’s not fair to win games and around the Special Olympic athletes as they send them out to society unprepared. Learnwere to be around him. ing how to give back is very important, and “Just getting to interact with them, the hugs and smiles, getting to laugh with them, it’s we talk about that. You can talk about it and a lot of fun,” the senior McKie said. “I enjoy it sounds good, but you actually have to go being out here, and I hope I can keep doing it out and do it. I think our guys have really, rephoto by allen sharpe after I’m done.” ally embraced that whole thought process.” Of course, this is all a small example of There is no doubt that the South Carolina what was once again a powerful “8K in 8 men’s basketball student-athletes have defichurch in West Columbia for 45 years, Jack- more significant to what we’re trying to acDays” campaign for Gamecock men’s basnitely bought into the annual community son has obviously been a valuable part of the complish in this neighborhood than having ketball as events like hosting children aged outreach with the big smiles and laughs community for a long time, and he is ecstatic the team to come here,” Jackson said. 9-12 from City of Columbia parks could very coming not just from those in the communi- with the way Martin has not only brought South Carolina senior guard Duane Nowell have a lasting impact on their lives. ty, but also from the Gamecocks themselves. both the Richland and Lexington counties tice and the Gamecocks love being able to “The purpose is creating a memorable exThis year’s “8K in 8 Days” campaign together, but also with the way he has made interact with the community, and they were included three events at the Colonial Life everyone feel like they are a part of the thankful to be able to spend some time at the perience for these kids,” said Will Kramer, Arena with the Richland County Sheriff’s Gamecock men’s basketball program with Brookland-Lakeview Empowerment Center. who works with Parks & Recreation in the Department, the Special Olympics and the campaigns like “8K in 8 Days.” “It’s always good to give back to the com- City of Columbia. “The opportunity to partner with the Gamecocks, bring them to an City of Columbia visiting South Carolina’s “For him to engage the community in munity,” Notice said. “I feel like as a team, arena like this, Colonial Life Arena, (and) first-class facility for events. In addition, the manner and spirt that he does is comthis ‘8K in 8 Days’ helps us kind of feel get a chance to interact with the basketball South Carolina men’s basketball studentmendable,” Jackson said. “We are so apcamaraderie as a brotherhood, especially athletes sent personalized letters to season preciative of him. That is why everybody having the amount of freshmen that we have players, take a tour, learn some drills, it’s such an incredible experience for these kids ticket holders, visited veterans at the Dorn is rallying around him to have a great coming in, so for them to help us give back that they’re going to remember for the rest of VA Medical Center, the Epworth Children’s season and continue to do well because he to our community is a great feeling for our their life.” Home and the Brookland-Lakeview Empow- really has touched our hearts. I can speak team.” The children present at the camp on erment Center. of course from the AfricanJackson knows that the opportunity for the Brookland Baptist Church American community, and he children to interact with an SEC Sixth-Man Wednesday, July 6, had been participating in the city’s summer basketball leagues, so they senior pastor Reverend has touched the hearts of the of the Year and an SEC Academic Honor were used to going through basketball drills. Charles B. Jackson, Sr. was African-American community Roll member like Notice can mean a great Even McKie’s cousin was one of those in atquick to point out during in a major way.” deal. South Carolina’s visit to the Having the South Carolina “It encourages them to be the best student- tendance. There’s no doubt he and the rest of the children dream of one day playing for the Brookland-Lakeview Empowmen’s basketball team take athletes that they can be because they too Gamecocks themselves. erment Center on Monday, Juthe time to visit the center is can someday become a college athlete,” “We tell our kids that the sky is the limit ly 11, that Martin is a “bridge something Jackson said they Jackson said. “They too can be a Carolina All Gamecock basketball will never forget. for what they want to do,” Kramer said. “If builder” in many different Gamecock. That’s a very, very good thing coverage sponsored by they work hard, they can potentially get to ways. “I can’t think of any event for us here.” Yesterdays this stage.” The pastor of his home that we’ve had that perhaps is To say the Special Olympic athletes en-

Spurs & Feathers • 11

October 5, 2016

South Carolina Gamecocks

2016

football Schedule 09/01/16...........at Vanderbilt# ....................... Nashville, Tenn....................W, 13-10

Standings

SEC

W-L

HOME

ROAD

09/10/16...........at Mississippi State#............ Starkville, Miss...................... L, 27-14

Tennessee

2-0

5-0

3-0

1-0

165

115

09/17/16........ East Carolina....................Columbia, S.C............... W, 20-15

Florida

2-1

4-1

3-0

1-1

0-0

142

Georgia

1-2

3-2

1-1

1-0

132

154

Kentucky

09/24/16...........at Kentucky#.......................... Lexington, Ky........................ L, 17-10

SEC East

NEU PF PA STRK

1-2

2-3

2-1

0-2

0-0

127

175

10/01/16........ Texas A&M#.....................Columbia, S.C................ L, 24-13

South Carolina 1-3

2-3

1-1

1-2

0-0

10/08/16........ Georgia#..........................Columbia, S.C.............. 7:30 p.m.

Missouri

0-2

2-3

2-1

0-2

0-0

185

117

Vanderbilt

0-2

2-3

1-2

1-1

0-0

101

118

SEC West

SEC

W-L PF

PA W-L PF PA STRK

Alabama

2-0

5-0 3-0

1-0 1-0 220 65 W5

Texas A&M

3-0

5-0

2-0

1-0

196

10/29/16........ Tennessee#......................Columbia, S.C.......................TBA 11/05/16........ Missouri#.........................Columbia, S.C.......................TBA 11/12/16...........at Florida#............................... Gainesville, Fla.............................TBA 11/19/16........ Western Carolina.............Columbia, S.C.......................TBA 11/26/16...........at Clemson.............................. Clemson, S.C.................................TBA Bold=Home Game #=SEC CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8 to visit Ole Miss October 7th and Miami October 14th. 6-10 Nick Claxton of Greenville has taken official visits to USC and Florida State. He will continue with his officials with Georgia this weekend, Baylor October 14th and NC State October 21st. Claxton is not ready to name a favorite at this point in the process as he aims towards a November decision, but the Gamecocks are planted firmly in his mind and Frank Martin gave him plenty to think about. “They were really the first high major school to recruit me and they’ve consistently been there for two years,” Claxton said. “They really want me. He says I’m real versatile and they need a player like me that can affect the games in a lot of different ways. And he wants to help me maximize my potential. I like it a lot and it’s going to make my decision even harder.” Claxton said he’s expecting USC to come in for a visit but he’s not sure when. 6-4 2G Clyde Trapp Jr. of Lower Richland picked up another major offer Tuesday night from USC coach Frank Martin. The Gamecocks join Georgia, Georgia Tech, Charlotte, Missouri, Kansas State, Rice and South Florida on Trapp’s offer list and while he’s happy about having them all, getting one from the hometown school was special. “It’s like every South Carolina kid’s dream to get an offer and be able to play in front of their family,” Trapp said. “I feel honored. I really like Frank. He’s a great

guy.” Trapp averaged 13 points, 6 rebounds and 2 assists per game last season. His coach, Caleb Gaither, said he’s an excellent shooter and passer and distributes the ball well to teammates. Trapp feels playing with the framework of the team is his strength and Martin recognized that. “He told me that he knows I can score the ball but what really grabbed his attention was that I make my teammates better and my passing ability. That’s where I fit in most. I get my teammates involved and I sort of feed off them. When they start going, we all start going. It’s a scary site.” Trapp has scheduled an official visit to Georgia for October 7th and he tentatively is set to visit Georgia Tech two weeks later. USC also is a possibility for an official visit. He and his family were there two weeks ago to meet with Martin and he said he might go to Saturday’s football game. Trapp said he does not have a favorite and he’s planning to sign in November at this point. Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski and his entire staff were in Spartanburg last Thursday to watch 2018 6-7 Zion Williamson of Spartanburg Day work out. Assistant coaches from Louisville, Georgetown and NC State also were in on Thursday. Williamson will visit Clemson for the Louisville game and USC October 8th for the Georgia game. Baseball News: 2017 OF Ian Jenkins of Suwanee, GA and 2018 OF Dillon Lifrieri of Wilton, CT committed to USC last week.

LSU

2-1

3-2

3-0

0-1

126

Auburn

1-1

3-2

0-0

156

Ole Miss

1-1

3-2

3-1

0-0

0-1

208

148

Mississippi State 1-1

2-2

1-1

0-0

114

Arkansas

4-1

3-0

1-0

0-1

180

116

0-1

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October 5, 2016

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Spurs & Feathers • 13

October 5, 2016

Bill McDonald: ‘I’m excited about what I see and the talent’ South Carolina men’s golf head coach Bill McDonald was hopeful. He knew entering the 2016-17 season things were going to be different, but he also knew he had a tremendous group coming back. “I thought at the beginning of All Gamecock golf coverage the year sponsored by Jeffers-McGill maybe we could just keep rolling,” McDonald mused to Spurs & Feathers from his office on Wednesday, Sept. 28. “Everybody coming back had really good summers, and I think I was maybe a little bit under the impression that things wouldn’t be that different. Two years ago, we thought we would have a hard time replacing Will Murphy and Caleb Sturgeon and Scott Stevens and Keenan Huskey grew into that role. And I think that’s a little of where we are right now in that losing Sean Kelly, Will Starke and Matt NeSmith, I think kids like Ben Dietrich and Ryan Stachler and Will Miles are emerging and growing into it, but it’s noticeable (that we still have room to grow) from final rounds. I think that’s from the kids trying too hard.” In their first tournament of the year at the Carpet Capital Collegiate the Gamecocks finished 10th. South Carolina followed that up by finishing fifth at the Maui Jim Intercollegiate. Now at the halfway point of their fall season, McDonald knows that his team is “definitely in a little bit of a transition period.” “As far as talent goes, I think we’re at a pretty high level,” McDonald said. “It’s just as coaches we’ve got to get the development there, and that’s a combination of making adjustments to their games and also letting time take its course as well. It’s a little harder in the final round with the ‘Block C’ on your back and the expectations that we have.” McDonald knows that as noted above that there is definitely talent in the fold, but on the whole it’s now developing talent with not as much experience. “I’m excited about what I see and the talent,” McDonald said. “I just think it’s real-

ly invaluable what Keenan and Scott were able to go through traveling with virtually three All-Americans (last year) in Sean Kelly, Will Starke and Matt NeSmith and it’s really starting to pay off for them.” South Carolina’s final two tournaments of the fall portion of their schedule are the Camden Collegiate Classic at the Camden Country Club Oct. 22-23 and the Ka’anapali Collegiate at the Royal Kaanapali Course in Lahaina, Hawaii Nov. 4-6. In the next few weeks before the Camden Collegiate and really the next few months, McDonald points out that it’s really all about fine-tuning things and getting that much-needed experience on the course in events and just at practice through qualifying. “That’s really the unique thing about college golf is that our season is about nine months,” McDonald said. “You’re constantly looking at what’s right in front of you and you’re looking at what’s three, four to six months down the line. I’m already in that mode somewhat of I’m looking at what kids need to do to develop over the winter break, and how they need to be getting their games ready for the spring.” While the approach from the past few years may be a little different for a Gamecock coaching staff that now includes assistant Jake Amos, McDonald also knows that is not necessarily a bad thing. “It’s a balancing act,” McDonald said. “I’m excited about it though because I feel like in some ways it’s a bit of a different form of coaching for me, so I’m making adjustments along the way as well.” McDonald has lofty goals for his team the rest of the fall. Once again though for him it’s all about continuing to progress and finishing strongly in all of their tournaments. “I would love for these kids to taste winning before the fall ends because I feel like that can give a lot of confidence of handling that pressure down the stretch,” McDonald said. To McDonald, that’s what a good team does in finishing strong in the latter rounds of a tournament. “You’ve got to find a way to save a shot here or there and improve your position,” McDonald said. “If you do that over the course of the year as you get into the SECs, as you get into regionals and things like that, that’s the kind of character building that really pays off.”

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14 • Spurs & Feathers

October 5, 2016

The Junior Gamecock Club Fall Sports Party a huge hit

by brian hand Executive Editor

“My turn. My turn.” That was the theme of the day at the inaugural Junior Gamecock Club Fall Sports Party as the children in attendance were having so much fun that they could not wait to take their turn in the bounce houses or at the various other stations set up throughout the center of the Roost Athletics Village between the Rice Athletics Center and the Dodie Anderson Academic Enrichment Center. “We wanted to do an event around the fall in trying to do more Junior Gamecock Club events throughout the year, so this is the first time that we’ve done the Fall Sports Party for all the little Gamecocks that came out,” assistant director of the Gamecock Club Kendall Belk said. “We have face tattoos available, rally towels, the whole volleyball team came out as well as some equestrian, track and field and men’s soccer student-athletes that came out to support the Gamecock Club and the juniors that are here.” The event that was free and open to all Junior Gamecock Club and Gamecock Club members was held in the hour before the SEC women’s soccer showdown between No. 8 South Carolina and Kentucky at Stone Stadium that the Gamecocks won in convincing fashion, 3-0, to remain undefeated on the year. The Junior Gamecock Club Fall Sports Party featured a Gamecock baseball inflatable, bounce houses, games, snacks and the opportunity to interact and get autographs with the aforementioned Gamecock student-athletes, who even went as so far as to jump in the bounce houses with the Junior Gamecocks in attendance. “It’s been really nice seeing the Junior Gamecock Club members have fun taking part in the activities that we have laid out and spend time with Cocky and enjoy their refreshments provided by Rita’s (Italian Ice) and Centerplate,” Belk said. A senior member of the South Carolina volleyball team, Dessaa Legros was thrilled to have the opportunity to interact with the Junior Gamecocks and their families. “It’s definitely nice just meeting all of the people that come and support us, and just noticing how important it is to them that we

photo by brian hand

Jace Brown, son of former South Carolina baseball player Jay Brown, enjoys the Gamecock baseball inflatable at the Fall Sports Party. interact with them,” Legros said. “It gives us a greater sense of community.” Legros and Gamecock volleyball are known for their efforts in the community as last year they were named the Community Outreach Team of the Year in the South Carolina athletics department. “It’s definitely just important to us because they make us better, and the more we support them, the better they support us,” Legros said. South Carolina women’s soccer head coach Shelley Smith after the Gamecocks win on the unique day was just thrilled to see so many Gamecocks young and old sup-

porting their top-notch program. “It’s really special to have this kind of fan base, and then to have all the young kids come out and know our players names (is special),” Smith said. “We do a lot of work with the community trying to be accessible to the young players. I think we have some of the best role models in these studentathletes, and for them to have this kind of crowd it means a lot to our players and also to the young girls that get autographs and can cheer and see good quality soccer. It’s a win-win both ways, and we’re so glad to see the community come back and support us.” The Gamecock Club in general was just

excited to see the smiling faces at the inaugural event. “We absolutely want to do this again, and hopefully we can have even more Junior Gamecock Club members come out next time,” Belk said. In the meantime, the Junior Gamecock Club is looking forward as always to hosting their annual Junior Gamecock Club Halloween Party at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden in October. For more information on how to become a member of the Junior Gamecock Club, please visit http://thegamecockclub.com/ donate/.

Spurs & Feathers • 15

October 5, 2016

South Carolina uses platform to raise awareness for Ovarian Cancer during the month of September by brian hand Executive Editor

was amazing. I want to thank the Ovarian Cancer Coalition of Central South Carolina. They had a table (at the stadium), and they had a lot of people South Carolina men’s soccer made a huge state- come by and that was wonderful.” ment in the month of September. Berson hopes their efforts along with many othEven if they were wearing teal. ers can help start the process of turning the month In fact, the Gamecocks were thrilled to trade of September teal just like the month of October in their garnet and black during the month of is associated with pink around Breast Cancer September to wear teal to raise Ovarian Cancer Awareness month. Awareness. “I think we can remember back before Breast The month of September serves as Ovarian Cancer Awareness became a big national moveCancer Awareness month, and to help raise ment and the color pink became associated with awareness during the month the Gamecocks that, and I think that’s a tremendous success story sported teal warmup jerseys and teal shoelaces for and we want to try to develop the same kind of all of their matches over the course of the month. awareness for ovarian cancer,” Berson said. The Gamecock coaching staff also donned Under More than 20,000 women per year are diagArmour coaching polos on gamedays and the nosed with ovarian cancer in the United States, South Carolina goalkeeper also was outfitted with and nearly 15,000 will die from the disease, therea teal jersey. fore knowing the symptoms is very important. “I want to thank everyone involved,” South “We’re trying to raise awareness about the Carolina men’s soccer head coach Mark Berson symptoms of ovarian cancer because if people told Spurs & Feathers from his office on Friday, can get themselves diagnosed early, the chances Sept. 30. “The athletic department as a family, of their success are much greater,” Moore-Pasas a whole, the marketing department in Joe tides told South Carolina director of content Brad O’Clair and Josh Waters, they really did a great Muller shortly before South Carolina’s match job promoting the event in the community. I want with Mercer. “Unfortunately, the symptoms of to thank Patricia Moore-Pastides as the spokesovarian cancer are similar to a lot of other condiperson for Ovarian Cancer Awareness in South tions, so it’s really important to get diagnosed Carolina, and the local Ovarian Cancer Awareearly.” ness group who have done a great job in helping Berson knows once again their role was as to promote awareness for this cause.” much about visibility through their platform as South Carolina men’s soccer originally undermuch as anything else, and the Gamecocks defitook the cause because they knew they could nitely provided that. bring high visibility over the course of the month. Currently in the top-5 nationally for overall at“Our part was just a very small part, but vistendance and for single-game attendance on the ibility was what we were trying to capitalize on, year with a school-record 6,892 in attendance for and I think that was very successful,” Berson South Carolina’s regular-season opener against said. “The players were great. They were really Clemson on Aug. 26, the Gamecocks including supportive and also our staff. The places that we the Aug. 30 match against Mercer for Ovarian went were very supportive, both at Furman and Cancer Awareness Day, their four home matches at Coastal. They both had a very nice pregame at Stone Stadium during September and their introduction to the cause, and made announceaway games in the month had well over 14,000 ments during the game. When we went down to fans attend their matches. FAU they also made an announcement during All of that is not to mention the thousands more the game. It was really a successful venture. It’s that saw the Gamecock coaching staff sporting something that we want to do each year.” the teal polos, the teal shoelaces and the team South Carolina’s efforts to raise Ovarian Canwarming up in teal polos on the SEC Network+ cer Awareness actually commenced during the broadcasts during their home games and the last game of August as their match with Mercer livestreams of away matches like on the SoCon on Tuesday, Aug. 30, served as Ovarian Cancer Digital Network at Furman. Awareness Day. “I thought we were able to make a statement if For the game against Mercer, all fans who for no other reason people are looking at our team donned teal to the game received $1 admission, and they are warming up in teal shirts,” Berson and before the game started there was a special said. “That was a big part of it, and it says on the ceremony featuring the Pastides and those inback ‘no one fights alone’ and has an Ovarian volved in Ovarian Cancer Awareness. Cancer Awareness graphic. I think we started There were 3,363 fans in attendance on the eve- off on the right foot and a lot of thanks to a lot of ning, and after the match Berson could not have people.” been more pleased with how things turned out in For additional information, please visit the the area. Ovarian Cancer Coalition of Central South Caro“I thought it was great,” Berson said on Aug. lina website located at ovariancancermidlands. 30 “I was so pleased with the turnout. I thought it org.

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16 • Spurs & Feathers

October 5, 2016

South Carolina Gamecocks # Name Pos. 1 Deebo Samuel WR 3 K.C. Crosby TE 3 Chris Lammons DB 4 Bryson Allen-Williams LB 4 Jake Bentley QB 5 Darius English DL 5 Terry Googer WR 6 Chris Moody LB 7 Korey Banks WR 7 Jamarcus King DB 8 Randrecous Davis WR 8 Marquavius Lewis DL 9 Jerad Washington WR 9 Sherrod Pittman LB 10 Skai Moore LB 10 Perry Orth QB 11 Brandon McIlwain QB 11 T.J. Holloman LB 12 Javon Charleston DB 12 Michael Scarnecchia QB 13 Sean Kelly P 13 Jalen Dread LB 14 Jamari Smith WR 15 Antoine Wilder DB 15 Matrick Belton WR 16 Bailey Hart QB 16 Rashad Fenton DB 17 Chaz Elder DB 18 Danny Gordon QB 18 Keir Thomas DL 19 Lorenzo Nunez WR 20 Joseph Charlton K/P 21 Rico Dowdle RB 22 Steven Montac DB 22 Montray Feaster WR 23 Christian Owens WR 23 Larenz Bryant LB 24 D.J. Smith DB 24 Garrett Frederick WR 25 A.J. Turner RB 26 Jasper Sasser DB 27 Toure Boyd DB 27 Ty’Son Williams RB 28 Jonathan Walton LB 29 Elliott Fry PK 30 Darius Paulk RB 30 Daniel Fennell DL 31 Chris Smith DB 32 Rod Talley RB 32 Brett Shore LB 33 David Williams RB 34 Mon Denson RB 34 Scott Grant DB 35 Shannon James DB 36 Morgan Vest DB 36 C.J. Freeman RB 39 Demetrius Smalls DB 39 Rivers Bedenbaugh TE 40 Jason Senn DB

Hgt. 6-0 6-1 5-10 6-0 6-3 6-6 6-4 6-1 5-11 6-2 5-10 6-3 5-8 6-0 6-2 6-1 6-0 6-2 6-0 6-4 5-10 5-10 5-10 5-10 6-3 6-2 5-10 6-2 6-0 6-2 6-3 6-5 5-11 5-11 6-4 6-5 6-0 5-11 5-11 5-10 6-0 5-10 6-0 6-0 6-0 5-8 6-3 5-10 5-10 5-11 6-1 5-10 5-10 5-7 6-0 5-11 5-9 6-2 5-8

Coaches/Staff

Wgt. 205 227 190 230 223 245 220 220 180 180 181 270 175 225 220 200 205 230 195 215 190 220 210 185 215 175 190 200 210 265 205 185 211 190 205 215 225 195 180 195 210 195 220 230 170 205 235 180 205 210 220 215 185 160 190 200 170 256 195

Cl. RS SO RS SO JR JR FR RS SR RS SO RS SR FR JR FR SR RS FR RS FR SR RS SR FR RS SR RS FR RS SO RS SR SO RS JR RS FR RS SR FR SO RS SR RS SO FR SO RS FR FR SO FR RS FR SR JR FR RS FR RS JR RS JR SO SR SR RS SR RS FR FR RS JR RS JR RS JR RS FR RS SO RS SR FR FR RS JR RS JR RS FR

Football Roster

Hometown/High School/Last College Inman, S.C./Chapman Bamberg, S.C./Bamberg-Ehrhardt Lauderhill, Fla./Plantation Ellenwood, Ga./Ceder Grove Opelika, Ala./Opelika Powder Springs, Ga./McEachern Atlanta, Ga./Woodward Academy McDonough, Ga./Henry County Tyrone, Ga./Sandy Creek Mobile, Ala./Blount Atlanta, Ga./Mays Greenwood, S.C./Greenwood/Hutchinson CC Jacksonville, Fla./First Coast Jacksonville, Fla./First Coast Cooper City, Fla./University PonteVedra, Fla./PonteVedra/Florida State College Newtown, Pa./Council Rock North Stone Mountain, Ga./St. Pius X Gurnee, Ill./Warren Fleming Island, Fla./Fleming Island Oakland, Fla./West Orange/FAU/Tallahassee JC Foley, Ala./Foley Jacksonville, Fla./Fletcher Riverdale, Ga./Hapeville Charter Columbia, S.C./Keenan/Hampton Mt. Pleasant, S.C./Wando Miami, Fla./Miami Carol City Union City, Ga./Banneker Worthington, Ohio/Worthington/Miami (Ohio) Miami, Fla./Miami Central Kennesaw, Ga./Harrison Columbia, S.C./A.C. Flora Asheville, N.C./A.C. Reynolds Covington, Ga./Newton/Coffeyville C.C. Union, S.C./Union County Griffin, Ga./Griffin Charlotte, NC./Vance Marietta, Ga./Walton Plano, Texas/Plano Clifton, Va./Centreville Jacksonville, Fla./Wolfson Rancho Cucamonga, Calif./Chaffey College Sumter, S.C./Crestwood/North Carolina Daphne, Ala./Bayside Academy Frisco, Texas/Prince of Peace Christian Columbia, S.C./North Greenville Loganville, Ga./Grayson Rock Hill, S.C./South Pointe Laurens, S.C./Laurens/Gardner-Webb Irmo, S.C./Dutch Fork/Tyler JC Philadelphia, Pa./Imhotep Charter LaGrange, Ga./LaGrange Laurens, S.C./Laurens Florence, S.C./South Florence Leander, Texas/Rouse Greensboro, N.C./Northern Guilford Bluffton, S.C./Bluffton Leesville, S.C./Lexington/Georgia Southern Beaufort, S.C./Beaufort

Will Muschamp - Head Coach Bobby Bentley - Running Backs Shawn Elliott - Offensive Line Coleman Hutzler - Special Teams Coordinator/Linebackers Bryan McClendon - Co-Offensive Coordinator/Wide Receivers Mike Peterson - Outside Linebackers Travaris Robinson - Defensive Coordinator/Defensive Backs Kurt Roper - Co-Offensive Coordinator/Quarterbacks Lance Thompson - Asst. Head Coach - Defense/Defensive Line Pat Washington - Tight Ends Jeff Dillman - Director of Strength & Conditioning Jamie Speronis - Associate AD/Football Operations Robbie Liles - Director of Player Personnel Joey Blake - Director of Football Nutrition Andre Goodman - Director of Football Development Larry Waters - Director of Football Equipment Operations Clyde Wrenn - Director of High School Relations

# Name Pos. 40 Jacob August TE 41 Tyler Ragsdale LB 42 Jordan Diggs DB 42 Alexander Woznick PK 43 Benji Russell DB 44 Adrian McGee RB 44 T.J. Brunson LB 45 Ben Asbury LS 45 Spencer Eason-Riddle LB 46 Trey Mitchell LB 46 Harrison Freeman LS 47 Drew Williams LS 47 Avery James DB 48 Nick McGriff LS 48 Dexter Wideman DL 49 Boosie Whitlow DL 50 Griffin Gentry DL 50 Sadarius Hutcherson OL 51 Cory Helms OL 52 Jajuan Blankenship DL 55 Christian Pellage OL 57 Hassan Belton LB 59 Logan Crane LS 60 Chandler Farrell OL 61 Javion Duncan DL 61 Cameron Johnson OL 63 Blake Camper OL 65 Pika Leota OL 66 Will Putnam OL 67 Ryan Green OL 69 D.J. Park OL 70 Alan Knott OL 72 Donell Stanley OL 74 Mason Zandi OL 75 Darius Whitfield OL 77 Malik Young OL 78 Zack Bailey OL 79 Trey Derouen OL 80 Shemar Glenn WR 81 Hayden Hurst TE 82 Evan Hinson TE 83 Chavis Dawkins WR 84 Kyle Markway TE 85 Devin Dingle WR 85 Michael Almond K/P 86 Robert Tucker III TE 87 Kiel Pollard TE 89 Bryan Edwards WR 90 Wyman Baxley LS 90 Taylor Stallworth DL 91 Shameik Blackshear DL 92 D.J. Wonnum DL 93 Ulric Jones DL 94 Kelsey Griffin DL 95 Dante Sawyer DL 96 Aaron Thompson DL 97 Kobe Smith DL 98 Stephon Taylor DL 99 Abu Lamin DL

Hgt. 6-6 6-0 6-0 5-11 6-0 5-11 6-1 5-10 5-11 6-2 6-4 6-2 6-0 6-0 6-4 6-3 6-1 6-4 6-4 6-0 6-6 6-0 6-3 6-2 6-0 6-8 6-8 6-4 6-5 6-4 6-4 6-4 6-4 6-9 6-2 6-3 6-6 6-3 6-1 6-5 6-4 6-2 6-5 5-10 6-3 6-3 6-0 6-3 6-2 6-2 6-4 6-4 6-5 6-2 6-3 6-3 6-2 6-4 6-4

Wgt. 248 220 205 160 200 185 225 210 226 210 235 215 195 225 280 240 246 273 310 265 305 215 245 280 260 300 300 315 282 265 330 290 325 315 286 300 315 310 175 250 238 200 245 180 222 238 230 210 195 310 265 240 300 295 275 271 305 293 310

Cl. RS SO RS FR RS SR FR RS JR FR FR RS SO FR FR FR SR JR RS SO RS FR SO FR FR RS JR FR SO SO RS FR FR RS SO FR SO FR FR SO RS JR RS JR RS SO RS SR FR RS SO SO RS FR RS FR SO FR FR SO RS FR RS FR FR FR FR FR JR RS FR FR RS JR SR JR FR FR FR RS SR

Hometown/High School/Last College Columbia, S.C./Fork Union Military Mt. Pleasant, S.C./Wando Fort Myers, Fla./Island Coast Greenville, S.C./Eastside Atlanta, Ga./Woodward Academy Greer, S.C./Greer Columbia, S.C./Richland Northeast Atlanta, Ga./Berry College Raleigh, N.C./Leesville Road Lexington, S.C./Lexington Raleigh, N.C./Leesville Road Irmo, S.C./Dutch Fork Duncan, S.C./Byrnes/Liberty Gainesville, Fla./Gainesville Saluda, S.C./Saluda/Camden Military Opelika, Ala./Opelika Birmingham, Ala./Homewood Huntingdon, Tenn./Huntingdon Alpharetta, Ga./Milton/Wake Forest Anderson, S.C./T.L. Hanna Brooksville, Fla./Nature Coast Tech Blythewood, S.C./Western Carolina Dartmouth, Mass./Dartmouth Summerville, S.C./Summerville Simpsonville, S.C./Woodmont/Citadel Bennettsville, S.C./Marlboro County Virginia Beach, Va./Frank W. Cox Asheville, N.C./Asheville Harrisburg, N.C./Hickory Ridge James Island, S.C./James Island/Presbyterian Dillon, S.C./Dillon Tyrone, Ga./Sandy Creek Floydale, S.C./Latta Chapin, S.C./Chapin Mobile, Ala./St. Paul’s Episcopal Pelzer, S.C./Woodmont Summerville, S.C./Summerville Lilburn, Ga./Parkview Union, S.C./Union County/USC-Union Jacksonville, Fla./The Bolles School Deltona, Fla./Deltona Duncan, S.C./Byrnes St. Louis, Mo./St. John Vianney Summerville, S.C./Cane Bay North Augusta, S.C./Westminster Atlanta, Ga./B.E.S.T. Academy Moultrie, Ga./Colquitt County Conway, S.C./Conway Athens, Ga./Athens Academy Mobile, Ala./Murphy Bluffton, S.C./Bluffton Stone Mountain, Ga./Stephenson Oxford, Ala.//Butler (Kan.) Community College Buford, Ga./Mill Creek Suwanee, Ga./East Mississippi C.C. Fort Lauderdale, Fla./Dillard Lawrenceville, Ga./Archer New Orleans, La./McDonogh 35 Fayetteville, N.C./Trinity Christian/Fort Scott C.C.

Jessica Jackson - Director of On-Campus Recruiting Kristin Sheetz - Director of External Communications Ellis Johnson - Analyst Kyle Krantz - Analyst Demarco McNeil - Analyst Scott Spurrier - Analyst Seth Strickland - Analyst Brian Turk - Assistant Director - Recruiting - Offense Shaq Wilson - Assistant Director - Recruiting - Defense Omar Young - Analyst David Feeley - Assistant Strength & Conditioning Coach Corey Jenkins - Assistant Strength & Conditioning Coach Roy Upchurch - Assistant Strength & Conditioning Coach Cedric Williams - Assistant Strength & Conditioning Coach Shuler Hayes - Assistant Director of Football Equipment Operations Kim Fields - Assistant to Head Football Coach Charity Grady - Coordinator of Offensive Operations Carina Hargreaves - Coordinator of Defensive Operations

Spurs & Feathers • 17

October 5, 2016

Georgia Bulldogs

# Name Pos. 1 Sony Michel TB 2 Jayson Stanley WR 2 Sam Vaughn QB 2 Maurice Smith DB 3 Tyler Simmons WR 3 Roquan Smith ILB 4 Mecole Hardman ATH 5 Julian Rochester DL 5 Terry Godwin WR 6 Javon Wims WR 6 Natrez Patrick ILB 7 Lorenzo Carter OLB 8 Riley Ridley WR 8 Shaun McGee OLB 9 Reggie Wilkerson DB 9 Kenneth Towns SE 10 Jacob Eason QB 11 Greyson Lambert QB 11 Keyon Brown OLB 12 Juwuan Briscoe DB 12 Brice Ramsey QB/P 13 Jonathan Ledbetter DE 13 Elijah Holyfield RB 14 Parker McLeod QB 14 Malkom Parrish DB 15 D’Andre Walker OLB 16 Isaiah McKenzie WR 16 Caleeb Roberson DB 17 Davin Bellamy OLB 17 Josh Moran WR 18 Isaac Nauta TE 18 Deandre Baker DB 19 Jarvis Wilson SS 19 Willie Erdman WR 20 Quincy Mauger FS 22 Avery McNeely DB 22 Brendan Douglas TB 23 J.R. Reed DB 23 ShakennethWilliams WR 24 Dominick Sanders SS 24 Prather Hudson RB 25 Steven Van Tiflin WR 25 Jaleel Laguins ILB 26 Patrick Burke WR 26 Tyrique McGhee DB 27 KJ Smith DB 27 Nick Chubb TB 28 Otamere Enadeghe DB 28 Shaquery Wilson WR 29 Matt Price WR 29 Tim Hill DB 30 Tae Crowder RB 31 Shattle Fenteng DB 32 Ridge Underwood ILB 33 Ian Donald-McIntyre RB 33 Kirby Choates DB 35 Brian Herrien RB 35 Aaron Davis DB 36 Rico McGraw DB 37 Jordon McKinney DB 38 Ryne Rankin ILB 39 Rashad Roundtree ILB 41 Chuks Amaechi OLB

Ht. Jr. So. RSo. Sr. Fr. So. Fr. Fr. So. Jr. So. Jr. Fr. Jr. Jr. Sr. Fr. Sr. RSo. So. Jr. So. Fr. Jr. Jr. So. Jr. Fr. Jr. Fr. Fr. So. So. Fr. Sr. Jr. Sr. So. Jr. Jr. Fr. RSo. Fr. Fr. Fr. RFr. Jr. RFr. So. RSo. Sr. RFr. Sr. Sr. Fr. So. Fr. Jr. So. Fr. Sr. So. Sr.

Wt. 5-11 6-2 6-3 6-0 6-0 6-1 5-11 6-5 5-11 6-4 6-3 6-6 6-2 6-3 5-11 6-3 6-5 6-5 6-3 5-11 6-3 6-4 5-11 6-3 5-10 6-3 5-8 6-1 6-5 6-2 6-4 5-11 6-2 5-10 6-0 5-8 5-11 6-1 6-1 6-0 5-11 6-1 6-2 6-3 5-10 5-11 5-10 5-11 6-1 6-0 5-11 6-3 6-2 6-2 5-10 6-0 6-0 6-1 6-0 6-0 6-1 6-1 6-3

Yr. 222 207 204 195 206 225 183 316 185 215 238 242 197 236 173 211 235 234 257 192 210 269 215 200 185 223 175 180 240 193 246 180 199 191 206 174 213 194 208 193 188 207 220 197 183 172 228 156 211 198 172 228 193 243 207 194 210 189 194 187 215 204 250

Football Roster

Hometown/Previous School Plantation, FL (American Heritage) Fairburn, GA (Creekside) Fort Pierce, FL (Fort Pierce Central) Sugar Land, TX (Fort Bend Dulles) Powder Springs, GA (McEachern) Montezuma, GA (Macon County) Elberton, GA (Elbert County) Powder Springs, GA (McEachern) Hogansville, GA (Callaway) Miami, FL (Hinds C.C.) Atlanta, GA (Mays) Norcross, GA (Norcross) Coconut Creek, FL (Deerfield Beach) Snellville, GA (Broookwood) Citra, FL (North Marion) Albany, GA (Westover) Lake Stevens, WA (Lake Stevens) Jesup, GA (Wayne County) Wauchula, FL (Hardee County) Waldorf, MD (Thomas Stone) Kingsland, GA (Camden County) Tucker, GA (Tucker) College Park, GA (Woodward Acad.) Marietta, GA (WKU) Quitman, GA (Brooks County) Fairburn, GA (Langston Hughes) Fort Lauderdale, FL (American Heritage) Waynesboro, GA (Burke County) Chamblee, GA (Chamblee) Alpharetta, GA (Milton) Buford, GA (IMG Academy) Miami, FL (Northwestern) Tupelo, MS (Tupelo) Merritt Island, FL (Melbourne Central) Marietta, GA (Kell) Athens, GA (Clarke Central) Augusta, GA (Aquinas) Frisco, TX (U. of Tulsa) Macon, GA (Rutland) Tucker, GA (Tucker) Columbus, GA (Brookstone) Saginaw, MI (Heritage) Watkinsville, GA (Oconee County) Marietta, GA (Pope) Byron, GA (Peach County) Perry, GA (Perry) Cedartown, GA (Cedartown) Atlanta, GA (KIPP Atl. Collegiate) Coral Gables, FL (Coral Gables) Snellville, GA (Brookwood) Atlanta, GA (Mountain View) Hamilton, GA (Harris County) Loganville, GA (Grayson/Hutchinson CC) Moultrie, GA (Colquitt County/Regents U.) Fayetteville, GA (Whitewater) Atlanta, GA (Tri-Cities) Manchester, GA (New Manchester) Locust Grove, GA (Luella) Nashville, TN (Ensworth) Dalton, GA (Dalton) Orlando, FL (East River) Evans, GA (Lakeside) Avondale, AZ (Westview/JUCO)

Coaches/Staff Kirby Smart - Head coach Jim Chaney – Offensive Coordinator/QB’s Sam Pittman – Offensive Line Dell McGee – Running Backs James Coley – Wide Receivers Shane Beamer – Tight Ends/Special Teams Mel Tucker – Defensive Coordinator Tracy Rocker – Assoc. Head Coach/Defensive Line Kevin Sherrer – Outside Linebackers Glenn Schumann – Inside Linebackers Kevin Beard - Quality Control -Offense Patrick Doherty - Quality Control -Offense

# Name Pos. 43 Nick Moore FB 43 Tommy Long OLB 44 Justin Hurston TE 44 Juwan Taylor ILB 45 Reggie Carter ILB 46 Glenn Welch FB 46 Michael Keene OLB 47 Daniel Harper OLB 47 Christian Payne FB 48 Jonah Guinn SS 48 Kyle LeStrange FB 49 Turner Fortin FB 49 Koby Pyrz SN 50 Johnny O’Neal OLB 51 David Marshall DE 52 Tyler Clark DL 53 Lamont Gaillard OG 54 Brandon Kublanow C 55 Jacob Gross ILB 55 Dyshon Sims OG 56 John Courson SN 56 Billy Seward OT 57 Alex Essex DT 58 Pat Allen OL 59 Matthew Herzwurm SN 61 Chris Barnes OL 63 Sage Hardin OL 65 Kendall Baker OT 66 Solomon Kindley OL 67 Sam Madden OL 68 Sean Fogarty OL 69 Trent Frix SN 70 Aulden Bynum OT/TE 72 Tyler Catalina OL 73 Greg Pyke OG 74 Ben Cleveland OL 75 Thomas Swilley OG 76 Michail Carter DL 77 Isaiah Wynn OG 78 Trenton Thompson DT 80 Charlie Hegedus WR 81 Reggie Davis FLK 82 Michael Chigbu WR 83 Jeb Blazevich TE 84 Wyatt Payne WR 85 Jordan Davis TE 86 Davis Kelly WR 87 Miles McGinty TE 88 Jackson Harris TE 89 Charlie Woerner TE 91 Chauncey Manac OLB 92 William Ham PK 92 Justin Young DE 93 Carson Hall DL 94 Michael Barnett DE 95 Marshall Long P 96 DaQuan Hawkins-Muckle 96 Hudson Reynolds SN 97 John Atkins N 97 Will Cowart P 98 Rodrigo Blankenship PK 99 Mitchell Wasson PK

Ht. So. Sr. Fr. So. Jr. Jr. Fr. RSo. Jr. Sr. Sr. RFr. Fr. Sr. Fr. Fr. RSo. Sr. RSo. Jr. RSo. Jr. RSo. RFr. Jr. Fr. RFr. RSo. Fr. RFr. RSo. Jr. Jr. GS Sr. Fr. Jr. Fr. Jr. So. Sr. Sr. So. Jr. RFr. Jr. Fr. RSo. So. Fr. Fr. RSo. RFr. Sr. So. Fr. DT RFr. Jr. RSo. RFr. Fr.

Wt. 6-3 6-2 6-4 6-1 6-1 6-3 6-2 6-1 6-1 6-0 6-0 6-1 6-2 6-2 6-3 6-4 6-2 6-3 6-0 6-4 5-11 6-3 6-5 6-4 6-0 6-3 6-6 6-6 6-4 6-6 6-4 6-0 6-5 6-6 6-6 6-6 6-3 6-3 6-2 6-4 6-2 6-0 6-2 6-5 6-1 6-4 6-3 6-3 6-6 6-5 6-3 6-3 6-4 6-5 6-4 6-2 So. 6-4 6-4 6-3 6-1 5-11

Yr. 250 237 221 214 230 239 223 215 242 225 235 231 280 238 273 305 301 293 228 309 193 269 272 298 236 301 290 305 336 334 303 215 292 314 325 341 317 293 285 309 207 170 213 242 181 240 207 221 247 251 243 180 278 286 292 217 6-4 216 315 165 191 179

Blaine Miller - Quality Control -Defense Luke Moore - Player Personnel Coordinator Jay Valai - Quality Control -Defense James Vollono - Special Teams Analyst Will Windham - Quality Control -Defense

Hometown/Previous School Snellville, GA (Brookwood) Marietta, GA (Wheeler) Stockbridge, GA (Woodland) Hallandale Beach, FL (Hallandale) Snellville, GA (South Gwinnett) Jesup, GA (Wayne County) Savannah, GA (Savannah Country Day) Atlanta, GA (Georgia State U.) Athens, GA (Prince Ave. Christian) Walnut Grove, GA (Reinhardt U.) Milton, GA (Milton) Johns Creek, GA (Northview) Cairo, GA (Cairo) Dublin, GA (West Laurens) Thomaston, GA (Upson-Lee) Americus, GA (Americus Sumter) Fayetteville, NC (Pines Forest) Marietta, GA (Walton) Molena, GA (Reinhardt U.) Valdosta, GA (Lowndes) Athens, GA (North Oconee) Watkinsville, GA (Oconee County) Richmond, VA (St. Christopher’s) Reisterstown, MD (Franklin) Augusta, GA (Augusta Christian) Leesburg, GA (Lee County) Atlanta, GA (Hardin) Atlanta, GA (Marist) Jacksonville, FL (Raines) Barnegat, NJ (Barnegat) Savannah, GA (Savannah State U.) Calhoun, GA (Calhoun/Air Force Academy) Valdosta, GA (Valwood School) Worcester, MA (Wachusett Regional) Baltimore, MD (The Boys’ Latin School) Toccoa, GA (Stephens County) Athens, GA (Cedar Shoals) Jackson, GA (Jackson) St. Petersburg, FL (Lakewood) Albany, GA (Westover) Marietta, GA (Lassiter/NC State) Tallahassee, FL (Lincoln) New Orleans, LA (Holy Cross) Charlotte, NC (Charlotte Christian) Dublin, GA (Trinity Christian) Thomson, GA (Thomson) Alpharetta, GA (Alpharetta) Savannah, GA (Kennesaw State U.) Columbia, TN (Columbia Central) Tiger, GA (Rabun County) Fargo, GA (Clinch County) Macon, GA (Stratford Academy) Loganville, GA (Grayson) Dallas, GA (East Paulding) Dorchester, SC (Woodland) China Grove, NC (South Rowan) 320 Atlanta, GA (Westlake) Bainbridge, GA (Bainbridge) Thomson, GA (Thomson) Warner Robins, GA (LaGrange College) Marietta, GA (Sprayberry) Roswell, GA (Lassiter)

18 • Spurs & Feathers

October 5, 2016

Depth Charts for October 8, 7:30 p.m. EST South Carolina OFFENSE WR: WR: WR: -OR- LT: LG: OC: RG: RT: TE: QB: -OR- RB: -OR-

1 Deebo Samuel 83 Chavis Dawkins 14 Jamari Smith 7 Korey Banks 89 Bryan Edwards 5 Terry Googer 8 Randrecous Davis 74 Mason Zandi 77 Malik Young 78 Zack Bailey 70 Alan Knott 51 Cory Helms 70 Alan Knott 72 Donell Stanley 69 D.J. Park 69 D.J. Park 63 Blake Camper 81 Hayden Hurst 3 K.C. Crosby 11 Brandon McIlwain 10 Perry Orth 4 Jake Bentley 25 A.J. Turner 33 David Williams 32 Rod Talley

6-0, 205, So. 6-2, 200, Fr. 5-10, 210, Jr. 5-11, 180, Fr. 6-3, 210, Fr. 6-4, 220, So. 5-10, 181, Fr. 6-9, 315, Sr. 6-3, 300, So. 6-6, 315, So. 6-4, 290, Jr. 6-4, 310, Jr. 6-4, 290, Jr. 6-4, 325, So. 6-4, 330, Jr. 6-4, 330, Jr. 6-8, 300, So. 6-5, 250, So. 6-1, 227, So. 6-0, 205, Fr. 6-1, 200, Sr. 6-3, 223, Fr. 5-10, 195, RFr. 6-1, 220, Jr. 5-10, 205, Jr.

DEFENSE Inman, S.C. Duncan, S.C. Jacksonville, Fla. Tyrone, Ga. Conway, S.C. Atlanta, Ga. Atlanta, Ga. Chapin, S.C. Pelzer, S.C. Summerville, S.C. Tyrone, Ga. Alpharetta, Ga. Tyrone, Ga. Floydale, S.C. Dillon, S.C. Dillon, S.C. Virginia Beach, Va. Jacksonville, Fla. Bamberg, S.C. Newtown, Pa. Ponte Verda, Fla. Opelika, Ala. Clifton, Va. Philadelphia, Pa. Laurens, S.C.

-OR- FB:

5 Terry Godwin 5-11, 185, So. 82 Michael Chigbu 6-2, 213, So. 72 Tyler Catalina 6-6, 314, Gr. 77 Isaiah Wynn 6-2, 285, Jr. 77 Isaiah Wynn 6-2, 285, Jr. 55 Dyshon Sims 6-4, 309, Jr. 54 Brandon Kublanow 6-3, 293, Sr. 53 Lamont Gaillard 6-2, 301, So. 53 Lamont Gaillard 6-2, 301, So. 55 Dyshon Sims 6-4, 309, Jr. 73 Greg Pyke 6-6, 325, Sr. 65 Kendall Baker 6-6, 305, So. 83 Jeb Blazevich 6-5, 242, Jr. 89 Charlie Woerner 6-5, 251, Fr. 18 Isaac Nauta 6-4, 246, Fr. 88 Jackson Harris 6-6, 247, So. 10 Jacob Eason 6-5, 235, Fr. 11 Greyson Lambert 6-5, 234, Gr. 12 Brice Ramsey 6-3, 210, Jr. 27 Nick Chubb 5-10, 228, Jr. 22 Brendan Douglas 5-11, 213, Sr. 1 Sony Michel 5-11, 222, Jr. 47 Christian Payne 6-1, 242, Jr. 46 Glenn Welch 6-3, 238, Jr.

6-3, 270, Sr. 6-4, 240, Fr. 6-4, 265, RFr. 6-2, 310, Jr. 6-2, 265, Fr. 6-2, 295, Sr. 6-5, 300, Jr. 6-3, 275, Jr. 6-6, 245, Sr. 6-2, 230, Sr. 6-1, 220, Sr. 6-0, 230, Sr. 6-2, 230, Sr. 6-0, 230, Jr. 6-2, 230, Sr. 5-10, 190, So. 5-11, 190, So. 5-11, 195, Jr. 6-0, 205, Sr. 6-2, 200, Sr. 5-11, 190, So. 5-10, 190, Jr. 6-2, 180, Jr. 6-0, 205, Sr. 5-10, 190, So.

Greenwood, S.C. Stone Mountain, Ga. Bluffton, S.C. Mobile, Ala. Miami, Fla. Buford, Ga. Oxford, Ala. Suwanee, Ga. Powder Springs, Ga. Stone Mountain, Ga. McDonough, Ga. Daphne, Ala. Stone Mountain, Ga. Ellenwood, Ga. Stone Mountain, Ga. Miami, Fla. Covington, Ga. Marietta, Ga. Fort Myers, Fla. Union City, Ga. Covington, Ga. Lauderhill, Fla. Mobile, Ala. Fort Myers, Fla. Miami, Fla.

SPECIALISTS K: P: LS: KOR: PR: H:

29 Elliott Fry 20 Joseph Charlton 13 Sean Kelly 20 Joseph Charlton 47 Drew Williams 48 Nick McGriff 25 A.J. Turner 16 Rashad Fenton 16 Rashad Fenton 3 Chris Lammons 13 Sean Kelly

6-0, 170, Sr. 6-5, 185, RFr. 5-10, 190, Sr. 6-5, 185, RFr. 6-2, 215, Sr. 6-0, 225, So. 5-10, 195, RFr. 5-10, 190, So. 5-10, 190, So. 5-10, 190, Jr. 5-10, 189, Jr.

Frisco, Texas Columbia, S.C. Oakland, Fla. Columbia, S.C. Irmo, S.C. Gainesville, Fla. Clifton, Va. Miami, Fla. Miami, Fla. Lauderhill, Fla. Oakland, Fla.

Georgia

OFFENSE WR: LT: LG: C: RG: RT: TE: -OR- -OR- QB: TB:

DE: 8 Marquavius Lewis 92 D.J. Wonnum -OR- 91 Shameik Blackshear DT: 90 Taylor Stallworth 18 Keir Thomas DT: 94 Kelsey Griffin 93 Ulric Jones DE: 95 Dante Sawyer 5 Darius English SLB: 11 T.J. Holloman -OR- 6 Chris Moody MLB: 28 Jonathan Walton -OR- 11 T.J. Holloman WLB: 4 B. Allen-Williams -OR- 11 T.J. Holloman CB: 16 Rashad Fenton 22 Steven Montac S: 24 D.J. Smith 42 Jordan Diggs S: 17 Chaz Elder 22 Steven Montac CB: 3 Chris Lammons 7 Jamarcus King N: 42 Jordan Diggs 16 Rashad Fenton

Hogansville, Ga. New Orleans, La. Worcester, Mass. St. Petersburg, Fla. St. Petersburg, Fla. Valdosta, Ga. Marietta, Ga. Fayetteville, N.C. Fayetteville, N.C. Valdosta, Ga. Baltimore, Md. Atlanta, Ga. Charlotte, N.C. Tiger, Ga. Buford, Ga. Columbia, Tenn. Lake Stevens, Wa. Jesup, Ga. Kingsland, Ga. Cedartown, Ga. Augusta, Ga. Plantation, Fla. Athens, Ga. Jesup, Ga.

WR: -OR-

2 Jayson Stanley 81 Reggie Davis 16 Isaiah McKenzie

6-2, 207, So. 6-0, 170, Sr. 5-8, 175, Jr.

Fairburn, Ga. Tallahassee, Fla. Miami, Fla.

DEFENSE DT: -OR- NOSE: -OR- DE: -OR- SAM: JACK: MIKE: -OR- WILL: -OR- LC: LS:

78 Trenton Thompson 6-4, 309, So. 92 Justin Young 6-4, 278, RFr. 76 Michail Carter 6-3, 293, Fr. 97 John Atkins 6-4, 315, Jr. 94 Michael Barnett 6-4, 292, So. 52 Tyler Clark 6-4, 305, Fr. 96 DaQuanHawkins-Muckie 6-4, 320, So. 5 Julian Rochester 6-5, 316, Fr. 51 David Marshall 6-3, 273, Fr. 7 Lorenzo Carter 6-6, 242, Jr. 15 D’Andre Walker 6-3, 223, So. 17 Davin Bellamy 6-5, 240, Jr. 41 Chuks Amaechi 6-3, 250, Sr. 45 Reggie Carter 6-1, 230, Jr. 6 Natrez Patrick 6-3, 238, So. 3 Roquan Smith 6-1, 225, So. 45 Reggie Carter 6-1, 230, Jr. 14 Malkom Parrish 5-10, 185, Jr. 18 Deandre Baker 5-11, 180, So. 24 Dominick Sanders 6-0, 193, Jr.

Albany, Ga. Loganville, Ga. Jackson, Ga. Thomson, Ga. Dorchester, S.C. Americus, Ga. Atlanta, Ga. Powder Springs, Ga. Thomaston, Ga. Norcross, Ga. Fairburn, Ga. Chamblee, Ga. Avondale, Ariz. Snellville, Ga. Atlanta, Ga. Montezuma, Ga. Snellville, Ga. Quitman, Ga. Miami, Fla. Tucker, Ga.

RS: RC: STAR:

33 Kirby Choates 35 Aaron Davis 20 Quincy Mauger 12 Juwuan Briscoe 35 Aaron Davis 2 Maurice Smith 36 Rico McGraw

6-0, 194, So. 6-1, 189, Jr. 6-0, 206, Sr. 5-11, 192, So. 6-1, 189, Jr. 6-0, 195, Gr. 6-0, 194, So.

East Point, Ga. Locust Grove, Ga. Marietta, Ga. Waldorf, Md. Locust Grove, Ga. Sugar Land, Texas Nashville, Tenn.

SPECIAL TEAMS P: 95 Marshall Long 6-2, 217, Fr. 12 Brice Ramsey 6-3, 210, Jr. PK: 92 William Ham 6-3, 180, So. -OR- 98 Rodrigo Blankenship 6-1, 191, RFr. SN: 69 Trent Frix 6-0, 215, Jr. -OR- 46 Glenn Welch 6-3, 238, Jr. H: 10 Jacob Eason 6-5, 235, Fr. 12 Brice Ramsey 6-3, 210, Jr. KOR: 81 Reggie Davis 6-0, 170, Sr. -OR- 16 Isaiah McKenzie 5-8, 175, Jr. PR: 16 Isaiah McKenzie 5-8, 175, Jr. -OR- 5 Terry Godwin 5-11, 185, So.

*These depth charts are taken from the listings from each team’s previous game. Spurs & Feathers goes to print shortly after the conclusion of each game. Please visit www.spursandfeathers.com over the course of the week for updated depth charts.

China Grove, N.C. Kingsland, Ga. Macon, Ga. Marietta, Ga. Calhoun, Ga. Jesup, Ga. Lake Stevens, Wa. Kingsland, Ga. Tallahassee, Fla. Miami, Fla. Miami, Fla. Hogansville, Ga.

Spurs & Feathers • 19

October 5, 2016

Moody: ‘You have to be fired up for this year’s team’ by kyle heck Reporter

training and you start to get an inside look into their personality and their work ethic and their drive. When you start to see everything gel that The South Carolina swimming and diving you hoped they would do when they came in, it team officially begins the 2016-17 season on does get you pretty excited.” Oct. 7 at the Florida Gulf Coast Invite, but it Both the men’s and women’s team had strong feels like last year’s season never ended because seasons a year ago. For the men, they finished of how much success various Gamecocks had 17th at the NCAA Division I men’s swimming throughout the summer. and diving championships, their highest finish Akram Mahmoud and Julia Vincent both in 25 years. The women were also impressive, participated at the 2016 Summer Olympics in posting a 29th-place finish, their best since Rio, and several other athletes put in solid per2012. formances at various trials and events across the What’s even better for Moody is that most of world. Allyson Nied finished sixth at the USA the talent from last year returns for at least one National Diving Championships, Tomas Perimore year. bonio broke two Ecuadorian national records “We only graduated one of our NCAA scorand Fynn Minuth won the 400m freestyle at the ers last year on the men’s side, Kevin Leithold Speedo Junior National Championships. was an All-American,” Moody said. “We have So it’s no surprise that head swimming coach all those guys coming back, and we’re adding McGee Moody hasn’t been shy about sharing some really talented people into the mix. his excitement for the upcom“On the women’s side we’ve ing season. His athletes started got a very talented group that training for the season as soon has come in,” Moody continas they arrived back on camued. “Christina Lappin has a pus, and the official season 100 butterfly time that is albegan on Sept. 1. ready under our varsity record. “I’m really excited, even Edith Lingmann, who’s GerAll Gamecock swimming and man, she’s someone who we more so now that we’ve got diving coverage everyone back on campus,” think is going to have a big imsponsored by Aquarian Moody said. “You get everypact in our sprints and middle Pools of Columbia one together and you start freestyle events.”

photo by jenny dilworth

Starting with the Florida Gulf Coast Invite to open the season, the Gamecocks have a difficult schedule this year. They have just three home meets while going on the road to compete against Texas A&M, Arkansas and Duke, in addition to invites in Georgia and North Carolina. While some of that was out of Moody’s control because of SEC mandated meets, the tough schedule will make sure the Gamecocks are prepared for the postseason. “It’s a hard schedule in that we travel a lot this year,” Moody said. “It is a tough schedule, but I

think these folks are ready to take on that challenge.” South Carolina will enter the year with some of the highest expectations yet, and the Gamecocks certainly have the talent to make some noise on a national level. However, there’s probably no one more excited than Moody. “You have to be fired up for this year’s team and what they’re capable of doing,” Moody said. “The returning team knows what they’re capable of doing, and the incoming group have really bought in right away.”

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October 5, 2016

Wil Crowe: ‘Any day I’m at Carolina baseball it’s a great day’ by brian hand Executive Editor Wil Crowe had a plan, and is quick to point out that it was the “smartest thing I could’ve done.” After undergoing Tommy John surgery on his right elbow in the middle of April of 2015, Crowe undertook the plan of missing the remainder of the 2015 season and all of the 2016 season to be back with the Gamecocks for the upcoming season. For a pitcher that was draft eligible in 2016 and had already spurned a great deal of money coming out of high school to play for the Gamecocks it was hard to believe for many that he would be back in the garnet and black. Even for South Carolina baseball head coach Chad Holbrook. “He told me when he got hurt, ‘I know you’re not going to believe this, but I’m going to be your opening day pitcher in 2017,’” Holbrook told Spurs & Feathers this past summer. “And that was before the surgery ever happened, and I laughed at him and said, ‘Wil, first of all, you’ve got a 12-month rehab in front of you. Secondly, you’ll be 100 percent next April (2016) and the draft is in June and you’re a high draft pick, so we’ll support you whatever you want, but you might be ready for pro ball at the time.’ I never really believed it, but he was steadfast and he never wavered, (saying) ‘I’m pitching in 2017. I want to do great things at South Carolina,’ and kudos to him for having that type of attitude.” of the 2016 MLB Draft on Saturday, June Despite being sidelined from the injury and 11. The 2013 Tennessee Gatorade Player of not pitching until making a summer league the Year, Crowe coming out of Pigeon Forge start for the Lexington County Blowfish of High School was a 31st round selection of the the Coastal Plain League on Wednesday, Indians. June 1, the Sevierville, Tennessee native was Crowe knows he made the right decision to still incredibly highly regarded by Major come back and don the garnet and black once League scouts with Baseball America listing again. him among their top-100 prospects entering “I’m glad to be here, and I just want to try this past summer’s draft. to show what I can do again,” Crowe told This past June, for the second time in his Spurs & Feathers on Friday, Sept. 16. “I’ve life, Crowe was drafted got to prove myself and try to by the Cleveland Indians. make an impact on the team, Crowe, who has two seasons whether that be on the field or of eligibility remaining with helping guys in the dugout. I the Gamecocks, originally just want to do as much as I informed the South Carolina can to help us.” coaching staff that he was Holbrook knows just what coming back to school on Frithat impact can be from the All Gamecock baseball day, June 10, but nevertheless 6-foot-2 right-handed pitcher coverage sponsored by the Indians took Crowe with this year. DiPrato’s the 632nd pick (21st round) “Obviously we’re the

photo by allen sharpe

beneficiaries of that (Crowe ultimately deciding to return), but he’s another kid that is a joy to coach,” Holbrook said. “The kid loves the atmosphere here, doesn’t want to see it end and wants to make the most of his opportunity and he feels like he has some unfinished business with how his sophomore year ended. He wants to leave here on a high note. I think he’s certainly going to do it. He’s worked his tail off. He looks great. I think we’ll see a 100 percent fresh and ready to go Wil Crowe in 2017.” Crowe was a huge success with South Carolina in his freshman season in 2014, ending the year with an 8-3 record and a 2.75 ERA in 91.2 innings pitched. Crowe made 15 starts in 2014, and opponents hit just .228 against him in his freshman season. He garnered freshman All-America honors from Baseball America, while also being named to the NCAA Columbia Regional All-Tournament team.

In his sophomore season in 2015, Crowe made nine starts and owned a record of 3-4 with a 4.91 ERA before learning he would have to end his season to undergo Tommy John surgery. Crowe underwent the surgery shortly after his last start of the year against Florida on April 10, 2015. Before ending his year for the surgery, Crowe had been tabbed as the SEC Co-Pitcher of the Week after striking out a career-high tying 10 in a 10-1 win over Kentucky on March 13, 2015. With fall preparations in full swing for Crowe and Gamecock baseball, he points out for him individually he is working to lose some more weight and get back into things. He is already down 18 pounds, and plans to lose five or six more pounds over the course of the coming months. “I feel good,” Crowe said. “My body feels good” before later adding, “I feel like I did before I was hurt.” The team player that he is, Crowe is not as worried about himself as he is about the team, relaying the Gamecocks have big goals in the upcoming season. “We want to win, and we want to win a lot, but we’ve got to work for that,” Crowe said. “We want to build off last year. We didn’t reach our goal last year of making it to Omaha, and that’s what we want this year.” Crowe in general is just excited to be back pitching at Founders Park with the Gamecocks. It was his goal after all. “Any day I’m at Carolina baseball it’s a great day,” Crowe said.

SIR BIG SPUR YARD SALE SATURDAY OCT. 15TH

Proceeds to support Sir Big Spur and Tranquilidad Foundation (a home for children and youth) For sale: Sir Big Spur’s war chest of Gamecock Memorabilia including prints, one-of-a kind items and collectibles. Christmas items, household goods, exercise equipment. Sir Big Spur prints and clothing. Signed copies of his autobiography. Sir Big Spur available for pictures.

At SBS’s Roost: 555 Kimball Pond Rd, Aiken 8am until 12 noon. AS14-1495677-1

Spurs & Feathers • 21

October 5, 2016

Gunter: Another step in the right direction

I know in the past I have talked about the similarities of Frank Martin and Will Muschamp and what they are going through in terms of building their specific teams. This past week, I thought there were signs that both are moving in the right direction. Both coaches are at different levels with their current programs but with Martin adding a key basketball Bill Gunter recruit and Muschamp’s team batContributing tling hard in a game Writer few gave them any chance of even covering the Las Vegas spread, I thought it was a solid week for the Gamecocks (also counting in the women’s soccer big victory against Texas A&M in College Station.) On Thursday, the Gamecock basketball program landed the commitment of Ibrahim Doumbia to Martin’s 2017 recruiting class. Doumbia, who chose the Gamecocks over offers from Florida, Baylor, Tennessee among others is a 6-foot-8, 190-pound power forward from Miami

Country Day in Miami, Fla. I had the chance to talk with several scouts throughout the Southeast to get a feel for what the Gamecocks are getting and each one seemed to agree he is a top-flight athlete that is just starting to scratch the surface of his talents. This is the type of player that Martin was having a hard time attracting when he first arrived in Columbia. However, due to his hard work and the improvement of the program, Martin has picked up a big time prospect from outside the state. After his announcement on Thursday, I posted on Twitter that the frontline of South Carolina for the next few years should be exciting to watch for fans. I am not sure the Gamecocks have ever had the type of athleticism and height that should be on the roster in 2017. As of this writing, the addition of Doumbia gives the Gamecocks two recruits in the 2017 recruiting class as Martin has also secured a commitment from in-state prospect 7-foot-1 center Jason Cudd. Turning the attention toward Muschamp’s football team, I thought that Saturday’s effort against Texas A&M was another strong step in the right direction. I am aware the Gamecocks did not come out as the winner for those that think I may have lost my mind but there were a lot of positives to take from the ballgame. For starters, there is no doubt fans should be

photo by jenny dilworth

seeing drastic improvement in both the defensive effort and defensive schemes each week. This particular Gamecock team still lacks depth, which makes it difficult at times, but players such as Chris Lammons and Darius English have made some significant strides while newcomer Jamarcus King is really developing into a solid cornerback. Offensively, the Gamecocks still struggled at times but they did manage to rack up 378 yards of offense, which is the most this season. Missed opportunities cost them a chance to pull the upset as Elliott Fry missed two field goals and Brandon McIIwain threw an interception in Texas A&M territory that probably would have at least given Fry a chance for another field goal. I have said several times now both on my radio show and in this column that this season is going to be full of ups and downs however this year’s version of Gamecock football should be fun to watch. I have said that because while wins and

losses do matter, seeing improvement each week is what I am looking for. This week I saw that and with the Georgia Bulldogs on deck, the Gamecocks will have a chance to maybe pull a big upset this coming Saturday night. Maybe I’m in the minority but seeing how the Gamecocks performed against the Aggies has me ready to get back to Williams-Brice Stadium this coming Saturday to see if they can build upon the effort. I’m not going to deny I am a pretty optimistic person (it’s a lot better than going around complaining about everything) but all-in-all, I think Gamecock fans should be pleased with the developments of this past week. It is clear that Frank Martin has his program ready to take the next step and the recruiting is picking up to have talented players waiting when their name is called upon. Not only am I looking forward to this year’s version of Gamecock basketball but also toward the future. For Will Muschamp, it was not a win and for some that is all you get judged on but I have stated since July that this is a team that is going to have some growing pains. Saturday was a step in the right direction and I can see the foundation that is being laid by Muschamp and his staff. Steps need to be taken to continue the development of each program, but overall things in Columbia are looking pretty bright.

View from Texas A&M COLUMBIA - Texas A&M came into its game against South Carolina on Saturday, Oct. 1, as a top-10 team and were 18-point favorites over the Gamecocks. However, playing in front of their home crowd at Williams-Brice Stadium, the Gamecocks stayed close the entire time before Texas A&M eventually came away with a 24-13 victory. “You have to give credit to South Carolina,” said Aggies’ quarterback Trevor Knight, who finished with 206 yards passing to go with 84 rushing yards and a touchdown on the ground. “They came to play today, and they made the plays that they needed to make us sputter.” Texas A&M (5-0, 3-0 SEC) entered the contest averaging 43 points per game and nearly 550 yards of total offense per game. South Carolina limited the Aggies’ offense, and it kept the Gamecocks (2-3, 1-3 SEC) in the game. Texas A&M finished with 422 yards of offense, but had just 325 at the end of the third quarter. The Aggies knew that the Gamecocks were a much improved team on the defensive side of the ball, thanks in large part to first-year head coach Will Muschamp.

“We knew that it was going to be a challenge,” said receiver Christian Kirk, who had 12 receptions, but only netted 61 yards. “Coach Muschamp is a defensive guru and we knew that he was going to come out and throw some different stuff at us. They’re really good on defense.” On the first play from scrimmage, South Carolina tailback A.J. Turner darted down the sideline for a 75-yard touchdown run that put the Gamecocks up early. However, the Aggies responded well and didn’t allow another touchdown for the rest of the game. “I feel like we did a pretty good job of bouncing back and playing good defense,” defensive end Daeshon Hall said. The Aggies were without several starters, including star defensive end Myles Garrett and wide receivers Ricky Seals-Jones and Speedy Noil. That, along with the fact that the Aggies were playing an SEC road game in a hostile environment, had Texas A&M head coach Kevin Sumlin making sure his team didn’t take South Carolina or Williams-Brice Stadium lightly. “It’s a tough environment,” Sumlin said. “They do a great job here. They crank that Sandstorm up and it’s kind of neat. It’s not for everybody (like) young players that look around and see that.”

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October 5, 2016

Gamecocks promoted cancer research at football game whistles and lanyards. “Childhood cancer research is so badly in need of funding that by supporting this awareFor the fourth year in a row, the South Caroness campaign, college football teams and lina football team partnered with Curing Kids coaches can actually help Curing Kids Cancer Cancer to promote awareness for childhood to save children’s lives,” said Grainne Owen, cancer research at one of its football games. co-founder of Curing Kids Cancer, in a stateThis year, the Gamecocks’ Curing Kids Can- ment. cer game was on Saturday, Oct. 1, against Texas Participation by college football teams for the A&M at Williams-Brice Stadium. cause has continued to rise over the last few The Gamecock athletic program in general years. has partnered with Curing Kids Cancer on In 2013, South Carolina, Georgia and several occasions through the years, and the Vanderbilt were the only three schools that parfootball, equestrian, men’s golf and men’s and ticipated. In 2014, the number of total schools women’s basketball programs have been parmore than doubled and last season, seven SEC ticularly involved. schools were involved. There will be a total of September is National Childhood Cancer nine teams wearing Curing Kids Cancer gear Awareness month, and the exposure provided this season. by college football teams allow thousands of For the Gamecocks, helping to promote the people a chance to see what Curing Kids Can- cause is vitally important. cer is about. “It’s definitely important to stand up for Players will wear helmet stickers and wrista cause,” junior linebacker Bryson Allenbands while coaches will wear wristbands, gold Williams said. “Ever since I’ve been here,

ball games pale in comparison to the struggles that children with cancer have to deal with. “It does humble you at the end of the day because no matter how bad things are for you, it could be worse,” Allen-Williams said. “That’s something that really affects us emotionally.” Curing Kids Cancer has grown tremendously since its inception, thanks to partners like the University of South Carolina. With events like the football awareness games, there’s hope that photo by allen sharpe there will be more and more attention brought to the need for childhood cancer research. Curing Kids Cancer has been a big part of the “Through adversity, passion and love, the Gamecock program. That’s a big game and Owen family has built Curing Kids Cancer into those kids, they don’t have the opportunity a powerhouse charity for researching a cure for and they’re not as fortunate as some of us to childhood cancer,” South Carolina executive be blessed with that health. So when we have associate athletics director/chief of staff/CCO the opportunity, we want to go out and play for Charles Bloom said. “Because of the Owen’s them and make sure that they’re having a good family desire to find a cure for childhood cantime, and make sure that we’re making them cer, Curing Kids Cancer has given more than proud.” $8 million to childhood cancer research. GameIn general, it gives the players and coaches a cock Athletics is pleased to join Curing Kids chance to put things in perspective. Losing foot- Cancer to fight to cure childhood cancer.”

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by kyle heck Reporter

Spurs & Feathers • 23

October 5, 2016

Upcoming Gamecock Club events

Current listing of known upcoming Gamecock Club events: Please contact Brian Hand (bhand@spursandfeathers.com) if your upcoming event is not listed. 23rd Annual Border Bash • When: Friday, October 7, 2016 • Location: Augusta University Golf & Gardens, One 11th St, Augusta GA 30901 • Website: www.borderbash.net • Facebook: www.facebook.com/borderbash Tickets Available: www.borderbash.net

Florence Gamecock Club Fall Rally The Florence County Gamecock Club will hold their annual “Fall Rally” on Thursday, October 13 at the Floyd Conference Center at Carolinas Hospital System. Doors will open at 5:30 pm with dinner from Roger’s BBQ House followed by the program at 7:00 pm with special guests, Head Baseball Coach Chad Holbrook and Head Beach Volleyball Coach Moritz Moritz along with members of the Gamecock Club, Spurs & Feathers and additional USC guests. There will be fun for all ages at the event featuring inflatables and membership in the Junior

Gamecock Club will be available. A special feature at the “Fall Rally” will be the Florence County Gamecock Club sponsorship of Harvest Hope. A raffle for autographed Gamecock items will be held and for each can of food donated to Harvest Hope at the event, a free raffle ticket will be given. Additional tickets may be purchased and all financial donations will also be given to Harvest Hope. Donna Lollis, Donation Relations Manager, from Harvest Hope will join the Gamecocks at the rally. Tickets will go on sale starting on Tuesday, September 27th, at $20 for adults and $5 for youth ages 12 & under, which includes the meal. Tickets can be purchased at

Rogers BBQ House and Jernigan Law Firm on Second Loop Road; both locations of Micky Finns on N. Cashua Drive and Pamplico Hwy. or through any Florence County Gamecock Club Board member. For more information, please contact Florence County Gamecock Club President Scat Scaturro at 843-621-8008.

24 • Spurs & Feathers October 5, 2016

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Spurs & Feathers • 25

October 5, 2016

Smith pleased with progress Gamecocks have shown during fall softball practice by kyle heck Reporter For many coaches, one of the best things about starting up a new season is getting a look at the fresh talent on the team. That holds true for South Carolina softball head coach Beverly Smith, whose team is a couple of weeks into fall practice. “We’ve got seven new faces on the team this year, so it was really nice to see freshmen get out there and play,” Smith said. “I’ve been pleased with our progress this fall.” Along with the freshmen, the Gamecocks have four transfers in the fold. Three of the four are eligible to play this upcoming season. Smith said the staff wasn’t keying in on transfers during the recruiting process, it just happened to all fall into place. South Carolina hosted the fall Gamecock Invitational on Saturday, Sept. 24, and Sunday, Sept. 25, and it gave the team a chance to play against other teams from around the state. While the Gamecocks have been practicing hard, Smith enjoys the opportunity to see her players react in live game situations. “They work really hard during the week, and then you get to play a game at the end of the week,” Smith said. “For me, it makes practice planning very easy the following week because you can see some of your holes or what got exposed or what just needs more attention in practice. I felt like our defense and base running were very good this weekend at home.” Base running is something the Gamecocks have been putting a lot of focus on during fall practice, and so far it’s paying dividends. “I think that’s something that every player on our roster can do better,” Smith said. “I think it’s something that’s going to equate to more runs for us, so we’ve put a heightened awareness on base running and technique.” Smith is dealing with various injuries to her entire pitching staff, so two outfielders were pressed into action on the mound during the Gamecock Invitational. Tiara Duffy and Kennedy Clark have pitched the majority of the fall, and Smith is very proud of the duo. “It’s just a testament to their toughness and courage,” Smith said. “They’ve just gone out there and done their job. We’ve played good defense behind them, and it’s been fun.” For the spring season in 2017, South Caro-

photo by allen sharpe

lina will have several seniors to lean on who have played a huge role in the program for the last several years. In addition, a trio of players who played a lot as freshmen now have a year of experience under their belts entering this season. “We return a lot of players that saw a lot of at-bats,” Smith said. “Going through a

season in the SEC, it’s just a different level. I think we had a lot of people that got to experience that this year.” Last year, South Carolina got out to a 19-2 start and rode that to a 38-win season. The Gamecocks advanced all the way to the championship game of the NCAA Tallahassee Regional and finished with an RPI of

24, their highest finish in well over 10 years. Smith hopes her team can continue to build off that success, and it all starts with the group of upperclassmen who have led the charge. “Our seniors signed with the intent of making a difference for Carolina softball, and I think they’ve done that,” Smith said.

26 • Spurs & Feathers

October 5, 2016

Education and family atmosphere surround Gamecock football families by brad muller South Carolina Director of Content

Parents of student-athletes have a special bond. Of course it’s fun to hear the cheers. It can also be tough, and parents can feel like a freshman who is lost or confused. Parents of South Carolina football student-athletes like to stick together thanks to Gamecock Football Families United (GFFU), which connects the families of student-athletes on game day and also provides valuable information to them throughout the year. “Gamecock Football Families United is a good way to help the new families feel involved and know what’s going on,” said Darnisha Allen-Jackson, who is the mother of junior linebacker Bryson AllenWilliams and is part of the leadership to help keep the other families informed. “When we first came here, the parents just took us in. Now I want to help out like other people helped me.” “It’s not easy to be a mom of a football player,” said Deborah Holloman, mother of junior linebacker T.J. Holloman (pictured above right). “We’re nervous from kick-off until the last tick on the clock. I enjoy this group. We talk a lot, but we don’t always talk about football. It’s a wonderful experience.” “It’s awesome,” said Cathy Hurst, (pictured above, far left) mother of sophomore tight end Hayden Hurst. “Last year we were new and didn’t know what to do. There were lots of great emails that gave us really good information. It’s just an awesome group to be a part of.” Several years ago, Jerri Spurrier, wife of former South Carolina head coach Steve Spurrier, and Senior Associate Athletics Director Chris Rogers started the GFFU for families of the players so they could share time together before and after games at locations inside Williams-Brice Stadium. This social atmosphere evolved into something greater as it provided compliance personnel and other administrators a forum to speak to the parents collectively about issues that may affect their children and also pass along general knowledge parents need to know about eligibility and compliance issues. “A lot of what we do is to try to be a resource for the student-athletes, parents, and coaches here,” said Chance Miller, associate athletics director for compliance services. “We also try to provide education to our student-athletes, but they have

so much going on with academics, practice, community service and everything else, so we need to reinforce some of the messaging. Doing that through their parents is helpful. It also provides a point of contact for the parents, and it helps the coaching staff in creating a family environment with the team.” “Every time we come in here, they give us some insight into what’s going on here or at other schools,” Holloman said. “They keep us on track with information about so many things. The NCAA rules can be so strict, and we don’t know all of them, but they provide us with everything we need to know. We follow the rules, and we teach our children to follow rules. If we know it’s a rule, we’re going to follow it.” In addition to NCAA rules, the parents also receive timely information about topics such as contact with agents as well as the benefits of a redshirt year to help young student-athletes better acclimate into the program. “Every week we receive an email of information of what is expected of the boys so there is no doubt on what is to be accomplished,” Hurst said. “They do an awesome job for us.” More than 160 family members of the student-athletes participate on a regular basis. In addition to the education the families are receiving, they are also gaining great relationships with the other families. The families of older players welcome in the newcomers each year and help pass on what they have learned. “I didn’t know where to go to get tickets, and I didn’t know about Gamecock Walk or what time to meet,” Allen-Jackson recalled. “I’m not a South Carolinian, so I knew nothing about a lot of the traditions. It was always good to get an email in the middle of the week to let us know where to meet at the visiting stadiums. Any questions I had about anything for nonfootball things, it was these moms that took us in. I like to share the knowledge that I’ve gained over the previous two years with other parents. I just keep my phone charged, and I keep texting away to answer any questions.” “When we see somebody walking around like they are lost, we go up and help them out,” said Brad Gooden, who is T.J. Holloman’s stepfather. “We’ve seen that look before.” While good times are had among the families on game days, Miller also enjoys hearing from them throughout the week

as well. “They call all the time,” Miller said. “We get calls from parents and family members as someone in the community wants to do something for them or their sons, and the first message to them is to call us. It helps us to deal with stuff on the front-end, before it happens, rather than on the back-end when we have no

control over it. I think the coaches also see the importance of creating a family atmosphere.” This family atmosphere has spilled over to formal groups for other sports as well, as parents of men’s and women’s basketball student-athletes have been doing something similar in the last couple of years.

Statement of Ownership, Management and Circulation (Act of October 23, 1962; Section 4369, Title 39 United States Code) Spurs and Feathers, 326 Rutland Dr. N.W., Aiken, SC 29801 with the operating and general headquarters at this address makes the following statement of ownership and management: Publisher Aiken CommunicationsEllen Priest, 326 Rutland Drive, NW, Aiken, S.C. 29801 Editor: Brian Hand Owners: Aiken Communications Inc., 326 Rutland Drive, NW, Aiken, S.C. 29801; Evening Post Industries, 134 Columbus Street, Charleston, S.C. 29403-4800 Extent and Nature of Circulation This is to certify that the issue of Spurs and Feathers of September 21, 2015 had the following extent and nature of circulation: Total number of copies (net press run) 6,564 Mail subscriptions 6,064 Total paid circulation 6,109 Office use, left over, unaccounted and spoiled after printing 255 Total pressrun 6,564 I certify the statement made by me above to be correct & complete. Ellen Priest, Publisher AS08-1499127-1

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The Ray Tanner Foundation celebrates 11th Year of Home Run October 15th by Sheryl McAlister COLUMBIA – The Ray Tanner Home Run, scheduled for Saturday, October 15, 2016, marks the 11th straight year for the event. The Home Run is a fundraiser of The Ray Tanner Foundation, a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt, nonprofit organization dedicated to serving economically and medically disadvantaged children and their families. The Ray Tanner Foundation, established in 2005, began its signature run a year later as part of a four-pronged approach to serving an underserved segment of the South Carolina Midlands area. The unique event is presented by Strictly Running and features a 12K Run, a 5K Run/Walk, a 1-Mile Run and a Kids’ Fun Run. The 12K event is certified by USA Track & Field and presented in conjuncsubmitted photo tion with the Columbia Running Club. “When we started the Ray Tanner Home Run in 2006, we had about 200 runners who joined us at the old Sarge Frye field (on USC’s campus),” said Karen Tanner, co-founder of The Ray Tanner Foundation. “Since then, we have seen our numbers increase significantly and are expecting approximately 1,800 run-

Officer of Strictly Running. Participants can register for The Ray Tanner Home Run on The Ray Tanner Foundation website (www.theraytannerfoundation. org), and at Strictly Running (www.strictlyrunning.com). Activities begin early Saturday morning, October 15, 2016, at Founders Park, 431 Williams Street, Columbia, SC 29201, with the

photo by brian hand from last year’s event

ners and walkers this year.” Proceeds from the Home Run have been contributed to Families Helping Families; the Family Shelter; Oliver Gospel Mission, and the Palmetto Place Children’s Shelter, among others. “Our foundation’s mission is focused on improving the quality of life for those in this community who are medically or eco-

nomically challenged,” Tanner said. “We, at Strictly Running, are proud to have been partnered with The Ray Tanner Home Run from day one. We are excited to see the growth the event has had and the contributions the proceeds have allowed The Ray Tanner Foundation to provide the community,” said Jordan Lybrand, Chief Operating

12K race start at 7:45 am. The 5K race/walk start follows at 8:15 am, followed by the 1 Mile and Kids’ Fun Run and games on the field. The awards ceremony is expected to begin at approximately 9:15 am. www.facebook.com/raytannerhomerun Twitter @raytannergives

Gamecock greats came out to support Sessions

by kyle heck Reporter

professionals like Sessions in Ashley Bruner and Aleighsa Welch. On Wednesday, July 27, former Gamecocks Both current and former members of the South Elem Ibiam and Tiffany Mitchell came out Carolina women’s basketball team have close to Cardinal Newman to support one of their bonds, and that was more than evident this past friends, despite both currently playing professummer at the SC Women’s Pro Am. Former sional basketball. Gamecock Khadijah Sessions is “It meant a lot for us to come the founder of the event, which out here and support Khadijah was in its first year, and she’s gottonight because she’s always ten a tremendous amount of supsupported us and rooted for us port from current Gamecocks and for the things we wanted to do former teammates. off the court,” said Ibiam, who The majority of the current plays professionally in Belgium. Gamecock women’s basketball “Especially because there isn’t a roster played in the SC Women’s women’s pro am in the Columbia Pro Am, and several former All Gamecock basketball area, I think it’s really good that Gamecocks also participated coverage sponsored by she got that going. I’m happy for in the event, including current Yesterdays her.”

photo by kyle heck

Just a couple of nights before, Mitchell, who is a member of the WNBA’s Indiana Fever, was playing for the U.S. Select team as they took on the Olympic team in a warmup for the 2016 Olympics in Rio. She made a point to travel back to South Carolina to show her face at the SC Women’s Pro Am. “I definitely had to support her since she’s my former teammate,” Mitchell said. “For her to

take the initiative to start something like that, it means a lot. Giving back to the program so they have something to do in the summer. I know the Gamecock fans are always wanting to see us play, so it was a great idea by ‘D’ to start this.” The help she’s received from all of her teammates obviously meant a lot to Sessions as she tried to get her new event off the ground. With so much support, there’s a great possibility that the SC Women’s Pro Am will be around for many more years. “It means everything,” Sessions said. “Me and those girls stay connected year-round. We were teammates and we always stay connected. We’re sisters and Gamecocks for life, and we’re going to do whatever it takes to support one another. I’m really excited to see those girls be able to have time to come out and support me and my event.”

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South Carolina/Texas A&M postgame notes and quotes south carolina athletics media relations

Opening Statement: “They got a really good football team. I’m really proud of our guys and the way they competed in the game. They continued to fight and battle, and we were just having a hard time with explosive plays offensively to create some vertical balls. Defensively, third downs really hurt us in the game with us not getting off the field. We had to play tighter coverage at times. I was disappointed in that, but our guys fought hard. We’re not in this for a consolation prize. We’re in this to win, and that’s the bottom line. We want to win now, and do what we need to do. I thought we made a lot of improvements from last week, especially on the offensive side of the ball. I give those guys credit, they made plays when they needed to. We came up short, but I’m really proud of our effort and how we competed. I want to thank our crowd because it was a great environment.”

GENERAL NOTES • South Carolina’s captains for the game were Bryson Allen-Williams, Zack Bailey, Darius English and Marquavius Lewis. • Official attendance for Saturday’s game was 78,245. OFFENSIVE NOTES • Wide receiver Chavis Dawkins and offensive tackle Malik Young made their first career starts vs. Texas A&M. Dawkins finished the game with five catches for 17 yards. • A.J. Turner’s 75-yard rushing touchdown just 13 seconds into the game was the fastest score for Carolina since Nov. 20, 2010, when Marcus Lattimore ran 17 yards for a touchdown 13 seconds in against Troy, after the Gamecocks recovered a Trojans’ fumble on the opening kickoff. Earlier this season against East Carolina, the Gamecocks scored 17 seconds into regulation on a nine-yard run by Brandon McIlwain. • Turner’s longest rush this season coming into Saturday was 20 yards, and the longest run by any Gamecock this season was 25 yards. • It was the longest play from scrimmage allowed by Texas A&M since 2013, and the longest rush allowed in over 20 years of available statistics. His run was the longest run by a Gamecock since 2013, when Mike Davis had a pair of 75-yard plays (vs. North Carolina 8/29, vs. Georgia 9/7). • Texas A&M’s Armani Watts’ interception of a tipped pass in the first quarter was Brandon McIlwain’s first career interception thrown (spanning 96 attempts). • A.J. Turner finished with 113 yards on the ground Saturday, shattering his previous career best of 70, set in the season opener at Vanderbilt. The Clifton, Va., native averaged 11.3 yards per carry. • South Carolina’s field goal in the third quarter were the first third-quarter points allowed by Texas A&M so far this season. • Freshman running back Rico Dowdle made his debut in the Garnet and Black and ran tough, finishing with 47 yards on nine carries (5.2 yards/carry). • Senior Perry Orth entered at quarterback in the Gamecocks’ first series of the fourth quarter and played the rest of the game, completing 11-of-18 passes for 138 yards. • Four different Gamecocks completed a pass in the game, marking the first time since Nov. 23, 2013, against Coastal Carolina that South Carolina had four or more players complete a pass (Shaw, Thompson, Orth, Hails, Nosovitch in 2013). Along with McIlwain and Orth, the Gamecocks also had pass completions from punter Sean Kelly and tight end Hayden Hurst on Saturday. • Along with his first career pass completion, Hurst also racked up 90 yards receiving to set a new career high. • For the game, South Carolina had a season-high 161 yards rushing. Its previous high was 121 yards against Vanderbilt (9/1). The offense also had a season-best 378 total yards. DEFENSIVE NOTES • Cornerback D.J. Smith recorded nine tackles to lead Carolina, setting a new career high. The junior had six tackles (five solo, one for loss) in the opening half alone. • Keir Thomas made his first career start at defensive tackle and finished the game with five tackles (three solo).

On what running back Rico Dowdle brought to the offense in his debut “He runs through contact, and he’s an explosive runner. A lot of times when there’s a zone read and you have that defensive end lagging down on the line, you’re able to get that punch and run through contact. That’s something you need, and he’s got some strength about him and some explosive power.”

photo by jenny dilworth

Freshman T.J. Brunson saw extended playing time at linebacker and responded with a career-high four tackles and a quarterback hurry. • Darius English set a new career high for sacks in a season after his takedown of Trevor Knight in the third quarter put him up to 5.0 for 2016. English also forced a fumble on the play, his second this season and fifth of his career. • Chris Moody’s fumble recovery after English’s sack was the second of his career, the first coming back in 2014. • Chris Lammons made an acrobatic catch for an interception in the third quarter, the third of the junior cornerback’s career. Lammons also had four tackles for the game, all solo. • Texas A&M gained 422 yards of total offense, the Aggies’ lowest total of the season through five games. SPECIAL TEAM NOTES • With his successful PAT on the team’s first-quarter touchdown, senior placekicker Elliott Fry moved into sole possession of third place in SEC history for consecutive PATs made with 131. It is the most by any SEC kicker since record-holder John Becksvoort of Tennessee made 161 straight (1991-94). • Sean Kelly connected with Hayden Hurst on a 36-yard pass play in the third quarter off a fake punt to set up a field goal attempt for South Carolina. It was the second successful punt fake of Kelly’s career, and the 36 yards through the air is tied for the second-longest pass completion of the season for South Carolina • After his 43-yard field goal in the fourth quarter, Elliott Fry moved into a tie for 19th for career scoring in the SEC. His 317 points ties him with John Becksvoort of Tennessee. South Carolina head football coach Will Muschamp

On his thoughts on South Carolina’s defensive efforts against an explosive Texas A&M offense “When you’re able to eliminate those guys on explosive plays and make them be patient, that’s when you play decent defense. I’m proud of our guys, and we’re improving. We’re playing blocks better and doing a lot of things better. We don’t have a lot of margin for error.” Category 1st Downs Total Yards Passing Rushing Penalties-Yards 3rd Down Conversions 4th Down Conversions Turnovers Time of Possession Passing Leaders Texas A&M COM Knight 23 South Carolina COM Orth 11 McIlwain 9 Rushing Leaders Texas A&M CAR Williams 14 Knight 12 South Carolina CAR Turner 10 Dowdle 9 Receiving Leaders Texas A&M REC Kirk 12 Tabuyo 4 South Carolina REC Hurst 5 Dawkins 5

AM SC 22 21 422 378 206 217 216 161 5-40 3-20 9-19 3-14 1-2 1-2 2 2 28:13 31:47 ATT 40 ATT 18 15

YDS 206 YDS 138 34

TD 0 TD 0 0

INT 1 INT 0 1

YDS 98 84 YDS 113 47

AVG 7.0 7.0 AVG 11.3 5.2

TD 1 1 TD 1 0

LG 49 15 LG 75 12

YDS 61 89 YDS 90 17

AVG 5.1 22.3 AVG 18.0 3.4

TD 0 0 TD 0 0

LG 11 33 LG 36 7

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Gamecock Radio/Television Information

The Gamecock Sports Network from IMG College counts 25 affiliate stations for the 2016 football season. For Sirius/XM subscribers, follow the Gamecock Radio Twitter page for weekly updates on channel information for Gamecock broadcasts. The weekly Carolina Calls show will air from 7-8 p.m. on the flagship station of the Gamecocks, WNKT-FM (107.5 FM), and over the Internet at www.GamecocksOnline.com. The show takes place each week at Wild Wing Café, located at 729 Lady Street in the Vista. Wild Wing Café, which is South Carolina’s home for the best wings south of Buffalo, has 12 locations in the Palmetto State. Inside the Roost South Carolina Athletics Director Ray Tanner and Derek Scott from the Gamecock Sports Network from IMG College host an hour long radio show every Monday night at 7 p.m. from Hilton Columbia Center in the Vista. The show is broadcast on 107.5 FM and features discussions on current issues with Ray Tanner and interviews with coaches and athletics department staff. South Carolina-Georgia television The South Carolina-Georgia game will be available on the SEC Network. Please check local listings.

2016-17 RADIO AFFILIATES

City

Call Letters

Frequency

Football

Abbeville WZLA-FM 92.9 johnston/Aiken WKSX-FM 92.7 Allendale WDOG-FM 93.5 Camden WPUB-FM 102.7 Camden WCAM-AM 1590 Charleston WWIK-FM 98.9 Chesterfield WVDZ-FM 107.3 Columbia WNKT-FM 107.5 Florence WFRK-FM 93.5 Florence WHYM-AM 1260 Gaffney WZZQ-FM 104.3 Gaffney WZZQ-AM 1500 Greenville WROO-FM 104.9 Hilton Head WVSC-FM 106.5 Hilton Head WVSC-FM 99.1 Lake City WHYM-AM 1260 Myrtle Beach WJXY-FM 93.9 Myrtle Beach WJXY-FM 93.7 Newberry WKDK-AM 1240 Rock Hill WRHM-FM 107.1 Seneca WSNW-AM 1150 Seneca WSNW-FM 94.1 Spartanburg WSPG-AM 1240 Sumter WIBZ-FM 95.5 Union WBCU-AM 1460

X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X

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Girardeau: There is no quit in this team Being a fan of a sports team isn’t always easy. Oh sure, it’s easy when you are winning all the time, but when the hard times come, do you throw your hands up and check out for the season and maybe come back next year? Of course not. You’re a fan or you’re not and you really have no choice once you have crossed the line of “this is my team.” That’s not to say that some people quit. Decisions are made every day as to whether to move on or stay. In the work place, decisions on what to eat and drink, more or less. It goes on and on. Sometimes in life the right thing to do is quit. Move Ed Girardeau on to something Contributing new; change of Editor lifestyle. It isn’t always an easy choice. It is the same way for the players of the sports. From my experience, the hardest thing to do is to actually quit. You are part of the team. Once you’ve crossed that line, there’s no going back, at least most of the time. Sure some players will move on to another team or another sport or become a doctor or lawyer or a real estate agent. Trust me though, a part of the athlete is always with that team. As for most, they stay and try to get better. Most do not give up. This season I’ve seen it a lot on different levels. I am involved with a television production of high school football every Friday. This year we have had some games where the teams refused to quit. A few weeks back, Barnwell hosted Wade Hampton. The teams went back and forth the entire game with Barnwell scoring with a minute and 20 seconds left to take the lead only to have Wade Hampton go the length of the field and have two plays from the one to win and come up short as the clock ran out. Last week, Strom Thurmond played the bigger North Augusta at home and went four overtimes, with each team scoring improbable touchdowns in two different overtimes on fourth down to extend to another OT. It was a shame either had to lose. This week, Aiken and South Aiken played with South Aiken leading handily in the fourth quarter only to see Aiken

having nothing for moral victories. They came to win the game not to come close, but he was pleased with the effort and disappointed for the team that it had not ended up on the winning side, but there are more games to come. The defense played well. Decent as he referred to it, but Muschamp made no bones about it. “Don’t get decent confused with good,” Muschamp said. “We played decent, but we can play better.” When we start playing good, the wins will come. Nobody is making excuses. Muschamp talked about practice this week and getting ready for the next one. He didn’t mention who the next one was though. The next one is Georgia. I make no pretense. I do not like Georgia. Nothing gives me greater pleasure than beating Georgia (okay, that will change when we get to Clemson). The Dawgs are coming off a tough loss at home after getting wiped out in Mississippi. They have not won in Columbia since 2008. It’s a winnable game. South Carolina will need to play its best game, no bones about it, and the players will need as much help as they can get. There will be no sitting in the press box for me this Saturday and if you have tickets, you need to be in your seats, too. Show up early, Go to the Gamecock Walk. A few years ago, I suggested in a column that the players should take their headphones off and interact with the fans. Coach Muschamp told the players in the first week to take the headphones off and photo by allen sharpe enjoy the experience. Take it all in and get fired up. Amen. There was a big crowd on Saturday for storm back to within four before bowing and cut it to eight in the fourth quarter. It out in the last minute. didn’t turn out the way we would want it, it, but it could be bigger. If you’ve been before and thought perhaps there was There is no quit in these teams. but you cannot fault the effort. nothing to that as players walked by with Then you see it on Saturday. Georgia The offense is struggling. Before the their heads down, listening to music, with was dead with their new coach and fresh- season ever started, coach Muschamp man quarterback, but somehow scored told us at the spring meetings that we had no interaction at all, this is different. with 10 seconds left to go up on Tennesplayers at every position, but we could not If you’re there early, give it a chance. see in Athens. It wasn’t over. Tennessee afford injuries. Most particularly at wide Help get the players fired up and yourselves fired up. The players and the on the last play from midfield scored to receiver. win it. South Carolina was without its three top coaches have been very appreciative of North Carolina got a holding call on wideouts on Saturday. People were catch- the fans for ECU and Texas A&M. We know we can do better and they Florida State to move the ball within 54 ing balls I’ve never heard of. Well, that’s yards for a last play field goal. UNC made an exaggeration. I’ve heard of these kids. haven’t seen anything yet. Get there in force, get in the stands, make a lot of it to win by one as the clock expired. I just haven’t seen them play in a game, noise. They have a freshman quarterback, And not to dwell on it, if you went home but they made plays. and stayed up and watched Clemson and Perry Orth came off the bench and made too. All of that will help. There are games on the schedule South Louisville go at it, there was no quit in some plays with his arm and moved the Carolina can win. This is the first one for either one of those teams. ball. It would have been pretty easy for the rest of this season. It’s a great time to You see it week in and week out on dif- Orth to have thrown in the towel, but he ferent levels in football. We saw it in Wil- has not quit and he came back and we will be a Gamecock, right here, right now. No quit. liams-Brice Saturday night. South Carosee him some more as the year goes on. Let’s get this one. lina hung in there and stayed in the game Coach Muschamp after the game was

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