USC football wrapped up preseason camp this past Saturday with the Gamecocks’ final scrimmage of the fall. Head coach Shane Beamer met with the media on Tuesday and said that he was really proud of the way his team worked throughout camp.
Saturday’s scrimmage lasted about 75 plays at Williams-Brice Stadium and Beamer noted it was one of the better second scrimmages that he’s ever been around. The workout was officiated by SEC officials and the team had to deal with a lightning delay during the scrimmage as well. Beamer said that was great practice for the players and coaches should weather be a factor during the season.
After having Sunday and Monday off, Beamer says the Gamecocks are going through a “mock game week”, prior to the real thing starting next week. He added that he cannot wait to get into a “packed” Williams-Brice Stadium next Saturday against Eastern Illinois.
Other highlights of the press conference …
— Beamer was obviously asked about the quarterback position in the wake of Luke Doty’s foot injury earlier this month. He stressed that USC has not named a starter at this point. “Luke just got his cast off on Sunday, so I don’t think we’re going to name a quarterback until we see what his situation is.” The first year head coach added that Doty is in a boot right now and feels good.
— Zeb Noland has only had a couple of days of practice at QB, so they want to evaluate him further this week.
— Beamer bragged on Noland’s intelligence and knowledge of the game. Illustrating that by revealing he was a captain at North Dakota State as a backup quarterback.
— QB Jason Brown had the best week of practice (last week) that he’s had as a Gamecock, according to Beamer.
— Beamer is focused on playing the quarterback who protects the football the best. He pointed out that there have been way too many turnovers during the month of August.
— On the injury front: No one was hurt in the scrimmage that would keep them out next week. Kevin Harris is getting closer and closer and USC is optimistic about him playing next week. Rick Sandidge appears to have the most serious issue and could be out a little longer.
USC also made several players available to the media on Tuesday. You can hear theirs, as well as Coach Beamer’s comments below.
