Most of the injury news from Will Muschamp Sunday night was positive, but he had two pieces of bad news Tight end Nick Muse tore his ACL in Saturday night’s win over Vanderbilt and will be lost for the season, and receiver Josh Vann broke his hand and will require surgery. He’ll be out the rest of the regular season but could return for a bowl game if the Gamecocks make one. Muse had 16 catches for 143 yards, Vann 18 catches for 184 yards. Neither scored a touchdown.

Offensive tackle Jaylen Nichols, who missed Saturday’s game, also will be out again this week. The rest of the injury news was encouraging with most of the walking wounded expected back for this week’s game against Appalachian State. Among those players are Dylan Wonnum, Rico Dowdle, Brad Johnson and Damani Staley. And there’s also a chance Keir Thomas will be cleared to play this week. Muschamp also said Jahmar Brown (shoulder) Tavien Feaster (groin), Shi Smith and AJ Turner could all be available this week.

Other notes from Muschamp

• Pleased with the offensive balance, really good on third down, blocked well in the run game. Lost some one on one in space with running backs they’ve got to win. Have to find some answers at the goal line.
• Thought they were solid on defense, effective on third down, played well up front and controlled the line of scrimmage.
• Was pleased with the play of Moore who filled in at right tackle for Nichols.
• Thought the switch up of McClendon to the booth and Werner to the field worked well. Communication went well, they were more productive.
• Appalachian State is an older team with 19 of 22 starters are seniors and juniors, quarterback is very effective.

Will Muschamp conference call