Chicken Little
Every week, we’ll be looking at Auburn Football’s upcoming opponent. This week, Auburn takes a trip to Columbia, so let’s take a look at the South Carolina Gamecocks.
Shane Beamer, son of legendary coach Frank Beamer, is in his first year as the head coach at South Carolina, and his first year of being a head coach. Last year, under Will Muschamp, the Gamecocks had a dismal 2-8 season in the all-conference schedule. This year, they appear to be much improved, holding a 5-5 record before Saturday’s contest.
Shane Beamer’s offense has been pedestrian for much of the year, averaging just over 300 yards and 23 points per game. The defense, coordinated by Clayton White, seems to be much improved from last season, going from giving up 36 points per game to just 24. However, in conference play, the defense has been very similar to last year. South Carolina’s defense gives up an average of 30 points per game in conference play.
Players to watch for:
Running Back ZeQuandre White: White does it all for the Gamecocks. He’s a versatile athlete in his senior year, and while he doesn’t lead the team in rush attempts, he does lead them in yards. On 65 carries this season, White has 462 yards and two touchdowns. He also 13 receptions for 120 yards and two more scores. While his number of carries has diminished in recent weeks, his contributions can’t be ignored. Tiger fans should expect to see him on special teams as well.
Safety Jaylan Foster: Foster is a sixth year senior for the Gamecocks, and is in his first year starting. He began his career at Gardner-Webb, transferred to South Carolina as a walk-on, and earned a scholarship at the start of 2020. In Fall camp this season, he won the starting job. He isn’t just a feel good story though. He leads the Gamecocks in tackles, with 80, and is 2nd in FBS in interceptions with five on the season.
