Shane Beamer held his weekly press conference, Tuesday, as South Carolina prepares to play host to Kentucky this weekend. Beamer addressed a number of topics including the poor tackling performance at Missouri, the lack of running game and how the team leaders are responding to the adversity.
This Saturday’s foe, Kentucky, is one of three permanent opponents assigned for South Carolina, per the SEC offices. The other two permanent opponents are Florida and Georgia. Beamer said he didn’t have any input on the league’s decision. The Wildcats have long been a fixture on the Gamecocks’ schedule with the two clubs meeting every season since USC joined the league in 1992. South Carolina also faced Georgia and Florida in every season from 1992-2024 before the two teams rotated off the schedule this season.
South Carolina (2-2) and Kentucky will kick off from Williams-Brice Stadium at 7:45 p.m., Saturday.
Key comments from Shane Beamer
- On play-calling: Says when you don’t win, it’s not good enough, same with coaching. Felt Saturday’s calls were fine, and he hears every one and can override. But no win, everything gets questioned. Adds they want to run it efficiently but not just to prove a point, need to show they can run while also using what they have in the passing game.
- Being a leader means having uncomfortable conversations, confronting and demanding. Notes this year’s player leadership looks different than last year, but there are plenty who care. Last year’s group included Knight, Kennard, Kroeger, Simon, Debo, Simpkins, etc.
- Thinks USC does more live tackling than most teams. Says it’s not an effort issue, but players can’t assume a man is down until the whistle. Stresses it has to improve this week vs UK’s back, who he knows from OU.
- On injuries: Availability report out tomorrow night, with no players definitely ruled out. Judge Collier returned to practice today.
- There’s a lot of people outside the building that aren’t happy with me and aren’t happy with our 2-2 record, and I don’t blame them