Shane Beamer held a press conference, Tuesday, to reflect on the Gamecocks’ 24-11 victory over Virginia Tech and look ahead to the home opener against SC State.
Beamer was especially impressed by the way his club closed out the win in Atlanta, never relinquishing the ball back to the Hokies after taking over with 4:43 remaining. Beamer was also pleased with the intensity and effort with which his team defended against the run, holding VT to 3.1 yards/carry.
The AP poll rewarded South Carolina with a no. 10 ranking in Tuesday’s poll. It’s the first time USC has been ranked in the top ten since the 2014 preseason poll.
Select Gamecocks players also addressed the media as USC looks to win its eighth straight regular season game.
Key comments from Beamer:
- Preparation for Virginia Tech (VT has new coordinators on offense and defense) wasn’t easy, but he felt the team handled it well.
- Judge Collier and Jatius Geer are “doubtful” for this week, though neither injury is long-term. He’s unsure if they’ll be ready to go.
- Oscar Adaway noted the first touchdown drive wasn’t scripted. Beamer clarified, saying it was “more yes than no.” They have openers for the first play and had run through it the day before, but while certain plays are planned, they’re not always in.
- Beamer said he doesn’t expect DL coach Travian Robinson to return for Saturday’s home game against SC State, as he remains hospitalized from a serious car accident a few weeks ago.
- Even with the SEC moving to nine conference games, he still wants to schedule out-of-conference matchups against teams like S.C. State.