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Brian Shoemaker
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DID YOU KNOW? You can receive this report (Gamecock Nation Today) early each morning in your email inbox. Just go to this link to enter your email address. Please contact me if you need assistance. – Brian Shoemaker, shoe@gamecockcentral.com
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Gamecock Nation Today
Helping You Be The Ultimate Gamecock Fan
Tuesday, Feb. 26, 2019
-------------------------------------------------------
Good Tuesday morning!
Pictured: Will Muschamp
1. Four questions Will Muschamp will almost surely get asked today ❓❔❓❔
South Carolina head coach Will Muschamp will meet with the media Tuesday at 1 p.m. to preview spring practice, which starts Wednesday.
Here are four questions that Muschamp will almost surely be asked and why they're important.
What's the latest on the recovery of Gamecocks' injured players?
A few weeks ago Muschamp announced that six players - LB T.J. Brunson, DT Javon Kinlaw, BUCK Danny Fennell, DT Tyreek Johnson, LB Rosendo Louis Jr. and RB Caleb Kinlaw - would all miss the spring as they rehab injuries of varying degrees.
Muschamp will also surely be asked today about the latest on other players, particularly wide receiver OrTre Smith, who missed most of last season after having knee surgery. Smith's official bio on USC's website says that he'll be limited this spring, but doesn't go into detail. The Gamecocks are hopeful to have him back in their rotation in the fall, though, as they look to replace the production of Deebo Samuel.
Defensive back Jamyest Williams is also expected to be limited this spring as he recovers from season-ending shoulder surgery, but it's not yet known how much he will be able to participate.
For that matter, it's also not known if he's slated to play safety again, or nickelback where he played as a freshman, or if there's any real chance of him actually getting a look on offense - an oft-talked about possibility on our message boards, but not something that's ever been mentioned publicly from anyone in the program.
Who will get the first shot at left tackle?
South Carolina returns three starters on its offensive line from last season, but has to find a way to fill what is arguably the most important position on the line: left tackle. Who will get the first chance to step in?
Gamecock Central's Chris Clark mentioned in his Insider Report on Monday that both Dylan Wonnum and Sadarius Hutcherson are expected to get a shot at the position with both players rotating in at both left and right tackle at times this spring.
Wonnum stepped right in at right tackle last season as a true freshman whereas Hutcherson was a starter at guard. It appears likely that both will be starters at the two tackle positions this year, but the real question at this point is who will line up on what side?
What's the plan for A.J. Turner?
After spending almost his entire college career at running back, the senior from Virginia moonlighted at defensive back for the final two games of 2018 due to a massive need there. Apparently Turner caught the staff's attention.
The tough-nosed, should we now say former (?) running back, is listed as a defensive back on the Gamecocks' newly updated spring roster.
That's an interesting move, since it's not that common for players who have done well on one side of the ball to simply flip to the other later in their career, but Turner has been a standout on special teams throughout his time in Columbia, and if anyone knows DBs it's Muschamp and Travaris Robinson.
It will be interesting to hear what Muschamp has to say about Turner, but it certainly looks like he's going to get a chance to show he can help in the secondary. Of course, if it doesn't work out, he can always move back.
What's the latest with Dakereon?
All eyes will certainly be on freshman quarterback Ryan Hilinski this spring, but let's not forget about redshirt freshman Dakereon Joyner either.
How much has Joyner improved now that he has had a full year to learn the system? Will the Gamecocks look to implement a package to get his playmaking ability on the field? Does Joyner enter spring as the No. 2 quarterback or is that title considered wide open?
These are questions that Muschamp will likely be asked but that only time will ultimately answer.
Links: News/Headlines | Roster | Scholarship Breakdown
– Wes Mitchell, wes@gamecockcentral.com
Pictured: A.J. Lawson
2. MBB: Gamecocks need win over Alabama to keep NCAA hopes alive
With four games left to play in the regular season, South Carolina has all but used up its margin for error.
The Gamecocks host Alabama tonight in what is a near must-win - well, frankly, every regular-season game from here on out is close to a must-win - if South Carolina is going to have a real case for making the NCAA Tournament.
Four straight wins to finish the season and the Gamecocks make a real case. Four straight regular-season wins, plus an SEC Tournament win on top of it, and South Carolina is probably dancing for the second time in the last three years.
It won't be easy (TeamRankings.com currently gives Carolina a 15.1 percent chance of making the field), but it is doable (none of the four teams left are over .500 in SEC play).
Who: South Carolina (14-13, 9-5) vs Alabama (16-11, 7-7)
Where: Colonial Life Arena
When: Tuesday, February 26, 7 pm
Watch: ESPN2
Gamecock Central will have complete coverage.
Pictured: Chris Cullen. Credit: Chris Gillespie
3. Monday's News & Headlines
Baseball. Gamecocks putting up serious power numbers. Just because USC lost eight of the nine starters from the final game of last season doesn’t mean Mark Kingston expected the power numbers to dip. He had a good feeling about a young, inexperienced group of bats, but the only question was how long would it take them to adjust. (link)
Baseball. Impressions after week two. Gamecock Central baseball reporter Collyn Taylor with analysis from the Utah Valley series and last week's Winthrop game. (subscription)
Baseball. The Gamecocks are ranked No. 30 in the new Collegiate Baseball Poll.
Women's Basketball. The athletics department is offering an opportunity for fans to support the team in its possible NCAA Tournament First and Second Round games with a bus trip to Charlotte, if the Gamecocks are selected to host the event. (link)
Football. Discussing the depth chart. Gamecock Central insider Wes Mitchell discusses the offensive depth chart as spring practice is set to start. (subscription)
The Insider Report. Gamecock Central insider Chris Clark with a bunch of recruiting notes plus some team information. (subscription)
Recruiting. Phenix City (Alabama) Central offensive tackle Javion Cohen has emerged as a legitimate target for Will Muschamp and his staff on the offensive line. (subscription)
Women’s Soccer. South Carolina released its spring schedule on Monday. (link)
Track & Field. South Carolina highlights from the final day of the SEC Championships. (link to video)
Captain Munnerlyn. The former Gamecock was cut by the Carolina Panthers. He had 47 tackles, along with two sacks and an interception in 2018.
– Jackson Fields, jackson@gamecockcentral.com
Pictured: Dylan Wonnum
4. Plan your schedule accordingly
Tuesday, Feb. 26
5. Signee of the Day - William Rogers
With South Carolina's 2019 recruiting class completely signed and locked up, Gamecock Central is spotlighting one prospect each business day for 23 days.
Today's signee of the day is Hampton (Ga.) Lovejoy three-star OL William Rogers, who was one of four prospects to sign with the Gamecocks during the traditional National Signing Day.
Other offers: Boston College, Cincinnati, Illinois, Missouri, West Virginia
Coach's corner: "He’s a guy that came to our camp, worked out in our camp. We targeted him early. He was a 300-plus pounder, verticaled at over 28 inches, which not many offensive linemen are doing that at the NFL combine. He can bend in his lower body, plays with power and will be an interior offensive lineman for us. He played some defensive line at Lovejoy but will be an interior offensive lineman for us." - South Carolina head coach Will Muschamp
– Wes Mitchell, wes@gamecockcentral.com
6. This Date in Gamecock History
February 22, 1966. In the midst of a down year, Gamecock fans were treated to an exciting game that saw sophomore guard Jack Thompson make a jump shot with two seconds left in overtime for a 59-57 win at Virginia. The Cavaliers had overcome a four-point deficit late in regulation and led by two with 23 seconds left. Al Salvadori scored for USC to tie the game and send it into overtime. Salvadori scored 26 points in the game on 12 field goals and a pair of free throws. Skip Harlicka was the only other Gamecock in double figures (14 points). The win gave USC a 4-10 record in ACC games.
– John Parker, gamecockarchives.com
7. Key Dates (Countdown) ⌚
Feb. 27: Spring football practice begins (1 day)
Feb. 28: NFL Combine begins (2)
March 6: SEC WBB Tourney begins (8)
March 13: SEC MBB Tourney begins (15)
March 21: Football: Pro Timing Day (23)
March 22: Muschamp Coaches Clinic (24)
April 6: Spring football game (39)
April 25: NFL Draft begins (58)
July 15: SEC Media Days begins (139)
Aug. 31: Football: Gamecocks vs UNC (186)
8. Gamecock Nation Birthdays
Monday birthdays of Gamecock Central members. (If you have a Gamecock Central account - free or pay - you can add your birthday here.)
Rob Mosser, baseball/pitcher, 1990-93. The Oley, Pa., native served as the Gamecocks' closer for his final three seasons (1991-93). Taking over the closer role in 1991, Mosser won three and saved eight with a 3.57 ERA. 1992 was his best year, as Mosser saved 11, posted a 1.72 ERA and a 1.17 WHIP. As a senior he won two and again saved 11, finishing his time as Carolina's career leader in appearances and saves (both later broken by Matt Price). In 2007 he was named to the "June Raines All-Era Team" through fan voting on USC's athletic department website.
9. Around Gamecock Nation
– Brian Shoemaker, shoe@gamecockcentral.com
10. Another Carolina Podcast
If you missed it last week, we have a new edition of Another Carolina Podcast. Gamecock Central's Chris Clark and Wes Mitchell discuss the latest on 2020 recruiting, spring football storylines, the men's basketball run and more with host Pearson Fowler. (link)
We have breaking news alerts and more newsletters: customize preferences
Spread the word about the Gamecocks and this newsletter! If you enjoyed this newsletter, please forward it to a friend or two. If you were forwarded this newsletter, you can sign up here to start receiving your own copy.
DID YOU KNOW? You can receive this report (Gamecock Nation Today) early each morning in your email inbox. Just go to this link to enter your email address. Please contact me if you need assistance. – Brian Shoemaker, shoe@gamecockcentral.com
******************
Gamecock Nation Today
Helping You Be The Ultimate Gamecock Fan
Tuesday, Feb. 26, 2019
-------------------------------------------------------
Good Tuesday morning!
- Today's highlights include a Will Muschamp press conference at 1, baseball game at 4 and men's basketball game at 7.
- Pleased to mention. The results of the 2018 Associated Press Sports Editors Digital Contest were announced Sunday, and Gamecock Central was a top-10 site in its category (results).
Pictured: Will Muschamp
1. Four questions Will Muschamp will almost surely get asked today ❓❔❓❔
South Carolina head coach Will Muschamp will meet with the media Tuesday at 1 p.m. to preview spring practice, which starts Wednesday.
Here are four questions that Muschamp will almost surely be asked and why they're important.
What's the latest on the recovery of Gamecocks' injured players?
A few weeks ago Muschamp announced that six players - LB T.J. Brunson, DT Javon Kinlaw, BUCK Danny Fennell, DT Tyreek Johnson, LB Rosendo Louis Jr. and RB Caleb Kinlaw - would all miss the spring as they rehab injuries of varying degrees.
Muschamp will also surely be asked today about the latest on other players, particularly wide receiver OrTre Smith, who missed most of last season after having knee surgery. Smith's official bio on USC's website says that he'll be limited this spring, but doesn't go into detail. The Gamecocks are hopeful to have him back in their rotation in the fall, though, as they look to replace the production of Deebo Samuel.
Defensive back Jamyest Williams is also expected to be limited this spring as he recovers from season-ending shoulder surgery, but it's not yet known how much he will be able to participate.
For that matter, it's also not known if he's slated to play safety again, or nickelback where he played as a freshman, or if there's any real chance of him actually getting a look on offense - an oft-talked about possibility on our message boards, but not something that's ever been mentioned publicly from anyone in the program.
Who will get the first shot at left tackle?
South Carolina returns three starters on its offensive line from last season, but has to find a way to fill what is arguably the most important position on the line: left tackle. Who will get the first chance to step in?
Gamecock Central's Chris Clark mentioned in his Insider Report on Monday that both Dylan Wonnum and Sadarius Hutcherson are expected to get a shot at the position with both players rotating in at both left and right tackle at times this spring.
Wonnum stepped right in at right tackle last season as a true freshman whereas Hutcherson was a starter at guard. It appears likely that both will be starters at the two tackle positions this year, but the real question at this point is who will line up on what side?
What's the plan for A.J. Turner?
After spending almost his entire college career at running back, the senior from Virginia moonlighted at defensive back for the final two games of 2018 due to a massive need there. Apparently Turner caught the staff's attention.
The tough-nosed, should we now say former (?) running back, is listed as a defensive back on the Gamecocks' newly updated spring roster.
That's an interesting move, since it's not that common for players who have done well on one side of the ball to simply flip to the other later in their career, but Turner has been a standout on special teams throughout his time in Columbia, and if anyone knows DBs it's Muschamp and Travaris Robinson.
It will be interesting to hear what Muschamp has to say about Turner, but it certainly looks like he's going to get a chance to show he can help in the secondary. Of course, if it doesn't work out, he can always move back.
What's the latest with Dakereon?
All eyes will certainly be on freshman quarterback Ryan Hilinski this spring, but let's not forget about redshirt freshman Dakereon Joyner either.
How much has Joyner improved now that he has had a full year to learn the system? Will the Gamecocks look to implement a package to get his playmaking ability on the field? Does Joyner enter spring as the No. 2 quarterback or is that title considered wide open?
These are questions that Muschamp will likely be asked but that only time will ultimately answer.
Links: News/Headlines | Roster | Scholarship Breakdown
– Wes Mitchell, wes@gamecockcentral.com
Pictured: A.J. Lawson
2. MBB: Gamecocks need win over Alabama to keep NCAA hopes alive
With four games left to play in the regular season, South Carolina has all but used up its margin for error.
The Gamecocks host Alabama tonight in what is a near must-win - well, frankly, every regular-season game from here on out is close to a must-win - if South Carolina is going to have a real case for making the NCAA Tournament.
Four straight wins to finish the season and the Gamecocks make a real case. Four straight regular-season wins, plus an SEC Tournament win on top of it, and South Carolina is probably dancing for the second time in the last three years.
It won't be easy (TeamRankings.com currently gives Carolina a 15.1 percent chance of making the field), but it is doable (none of the four teams left are over .500 in SEC play).
Who: South Carolina (14-13, 9-5) vs Alabama (16-11, 7-7)
Where: Colonial Life Arena
When: Tuesday, February 26, 7 pm
Watch: ESPN2
Gamecock Central will have complete coverage.
- Related: Frank Martin’s message to his team about the NCAA Tournament. (link)
Pictured: Chris Cullen. Credit: Chris Gillespie
3. Monday's News & Headlines
Baseball. Gamecocks putting up serious power numbers. Just because USC lost eight of the nine starters from the final game of last season doesn’t mean Mark Kingston expected the power numbers to dip. He had a good feeling about a young, inexperienced group of bats, but the only question was how long would it take them to adjust. (link)
Baseball. Impressions after week two. Gamecock Central baseball reporter Collyn Taylor with analysis from the Utah Valley series and last week's Winthrop game. (subscription)
Baseball. The Gamecocks are ranked No. 30 in the new Collegiate Baseball Poll.
- Related: All college baseball polls
Women's Basketball. The athletics department is offering an opportunity for fans to support the team in its possible NCAA Tournament First and Second Round games with a bus trip to Charlotte, if the Gamecocks are selected to host the event. (link)
Football. Discussing the depth chart. Gamecock Central insider Wes Mitchell discusses the offensive depth chart as spring practice is set to start. (subscription)
The Insider Report. Gamecock Central insider Chris Clark with a bunch of recruiting notes plus some team information. (subscription)
Recruiting. Phenix City (Alabama) Central offensive tackle Javion Cohen has emerged as a legitimate target for Will Muschamp and his staff on the offensive line. (subscription)
Women’s Soccer. South Carolina released its spring schedule on Monday. (link)
- March 23 - Wake Forest (home) - 12:30 pm
- March 30 - NC Courage (away) - 2 pm
- April 7 - CofC & Coastal (in Charleston) - 3 pm
- April 13 - Duke (in Charlotte) - Time TBA
Track & Field. South Carolina highlights from the final day of the SEC Championships. (link to video)
Captain Munnerlyn. The former Gamecock was cut by the Carolina Panthers. He had 47 tackles, along with two sacks and an interception in 2018.
– Jackson Fields, jackson@gamecockcentral.com
Pictured: Dylan Wonnum
4. Plan your schedule accordingly
Tuesday, Feb. 26
- 1 pm, Will Muschamp pre-spring practice presser
- 4 pm, Baseball hosts Appalachian State (no video)
- 7 pm, Men's Basketball hosts Alabama on ESPN2
- Morning, Football spring practice No. 1 (closed to public)
- 6 pm, Softball hosts Coastal Carolina
- Afternoon, Media interviews begin at the NFL Combine. Former Gamecocks expected to speak Thursday are Dennis Daley and Zack Bailey.
- 7 pm, Women’s Basketball travels to Auburn, SECN+
- 7 pm, Carolina Calls featuring Frank Martin
5. Signee of the Day - William Rogers
With South Carolina's 2019 recruiting class completely signed and locked up, Gamecock Central is spotlighting one prospect each business day for 23 days.
Today's signee of the day is Hampton (Ga.) Lovejoy three-star OL William Rogers, who was one of four prospects to sign with the Gamecocks during the traditional National Signing Day.
Other offers: Boston College, Cincinnati, Illinois, Missouri, West Virginia
Coach's corner: "He’s a guy that came to our camp, worked out in our camp. We targeted him early. He was a 300-plus pounder, verticaled at over 28 inches, which not many offensive linemen are doing that at the NFL combine. He can bend in his lower body, plays with power and will be an interior offensive lineman for us. He played some defensive line at Lovejoy but will be an interior offensive lineman for us." - South Carolina head coach Will Muschamp
– Wes Mitchell, wes@gamecockcentral.com
6. This Date in Gamecock History
February 22, 1966. In the midst of a down year, Gamecock fans were treated to an exciting game that saw sophomore guard Jack Thompson make a jump shot with two seconds left in overtime for a 59-57 win at Virginia. The Cavaliers had overcome a four-point deficit late in regulation and led by two with 23 seconds left. Al Salvadori scored for USC to tie the game and send it into overtime. Salvadori scored 26 points in the game on 12 field goals and a pair of free throws. Skip Harlicka was the only other Gamecock in double figures (14 points). The win gave USC a 4-10 record in ACC games.
– John Parker, gamecockarchives.com
7. Key Dates (Countdown) ⌚
Feb. 27: Spring football practice begins (1 day)
Feb. 28: NFL Combine begins (2)
March 6: SEC WBB Tourney begins (8)
March 13: SEC MBB Tourney begins (15)
March 21: Football: Pro Timing Day (23)
March 22: Muschamp Coaches Clinic (24)
April 6: Spring football game (39)
April 25: NFL Draft begins (58)
July 15: SEC Media Days begins (139)
Aug. 31: Football: Gamecocks vs UNC (186)
8. Gamecock Nation Birthdays
Monday birthdays of Gamecock Central members. (If you have a Gamecock Central account - free or pay - you can add your birthday here.)
- @macaroni#, member since 2003
Rob Mosser, baseball/pitcher, 1990-93. The Oley, Pa., native served as the Gamecocks' closer for his final three seasons (1991-93). Taking over the closer role in 1991, Mosser won three and saved eight with a 3.57 ERA. 1992 was his best year, as Mosser saved 11, posted a 1.72 ERA and a 1.17 WHIP. As a senior he won two and again saved 11, finishing his time as Carolina's career leader in appearances and saves (both later broken by Matt Price). In 2007 he was named to the "June Raines All-Era Team" through fan voting on USC's athletic department website.
- Jim Fleming, baseball/outfielder, 1973-76
- Adam Holmes, football/long snapper, 1997-01
- Shannon Jones, football/defensive end, 1989-91
- Derrick Mack, baseball/outfielder, 1989
- Brent Marsh, baseball/pitcher, 2005
- Joe McGregor, football/defensive tackle, 1974-77
- Mark Taylor, baseball/second baseman, 1986-89
9. Around Gamecock Nation
- March 9 - Charlotte Gamecock Club, Gamecock Yoga & Mimosas (link)
- March 27 - Greenville, Alumni Association President's Reception
- April 23 - Augusta, Spurs Up Tour featuring Will Muschamp*
- April 24 - Midlands, Spurs Up Tour featuring Will Muschamp*
- April 29 - Lancaster, Spurs Up Tour featuring Will Muschamp*
- April 30 - Greenville, Spurs Up Tour featuring Will Muschamp*
- May 2 - York, Spurs Up Tour featuring Will Muschamp*
- May 7 - Sumter, Spurs Up Tour featuring Will Muschamp*
- May 8 - Myrtle Beach, Spurs Up Tour featuring Will Muschamp*
- May 9 - Atlanta, Spurs Up Tour featuring Will Muschamp*
- May 14 - Charleston, Spurs Up Tour featuring Will Muschamp*
– Brian Shoemaker, shoe@gamecockcentral.com
10. Another Carolina Podcast
If you missed it last week, we have a new edition of Another Carolina Podcast. Gamecock Central's Chris Clark and Wes Mitchell discuss the latest on 2020 recruiting, spring football storylines, the men's basketball run and more with host Pearson Fowler. (link)
We have breaking news alerts and more newsletters: customize preferences
Spread the word about the Gamecocks and this newsletter! If you enjoyed this newsletter, please forward it to a friend or two. If you were forwarded this newsletter, you can sign up here to start receiving your own copy.
