Can I say I told you so

[AikenGameFan]

I took so much flak back in August when I tried to tell people on here how good this team could be. People thought I was absolutely wrong. I will not repeat some of what was said but I thought it was funny to be accused of being on the BOT.

The following is some of what I said…

I know after last year's let down; it is hard to get hyped.

For some reason it seems I remember in 2022 people were saying 2024 was going to be a big year for us. Several of the recruits we were hoping for back then did sign on last year. I do not remember what it was about this year that seemed so different, but maybe 2024 will be the year. We really do have some decent talent now.

Can Sellers show out like a future Heisman candidate?

Can the O-line stay healthy and not only protect Sellers but open up some holes for our running backs?

Can the RBs like Rocket get some 100 + yard games?

Can some of the new WR shine like Legette did last year?

Will Nick show why being so fast can be huge for a WR that can leave the other team's secondary back in dust?

Can our defense hold the other team to occasional FGs and start getting more INTs?

Even in the Clemson game the defense did not allow a TD. Can they continue to play like that, and our offense actually be scoring TDs?

Can our Special teams be explosive again? How many TDs will we get on special teams?

So many questions going through my mind.
I feel the talent is there and we have the coaches to develop that talent. But will it happen? Even Saban said it could be close.
I think after we see them play August 31, we might have some confidence back. But I think Sept 7 will really tell us what we might be able to expect this year.
But even beating UK don't mean much when you still have LSU, ALA, and OKL games to play.

Out of 12 games, 8 are already ranked in the pre-season. Does that help calm the hype or not? Sadly, for me, No.

How do I feel? I feel we are all going to be surprised and impressed with our team this year. I just printed this and taped it to my office wall.


Then later that week I posted this in a thread…Aug 26, 2024

8-4 and you can quote me all season long if you want. But I sure hope a couple will be willing to apologize when it happens.


I have been a Gamecock since 1976. I have gotten my feelings hurt a bunch. But I sure am glad I was right this year. Now I feel I was wrong about 8-4. I think we will do 9-3. Some people were swearing we would have 7 loses this season.

Sellers is outstanding and getting better every week. He will be better than Rattler was. And like I said, he is like another RB out there. Very hard to tackle and has a great arm even when running.

Our O line has stayed healthy and they are getting better too. Having so many on the roster (16 OL on the roster) to substitute and give them breathers has been huge this year. Great planning by Beamer.

Our D is like watching the Fire Ant D again. So, so good. Way to go Clayton.

Our Special teams is not so special yet but Kai Kroeger is kicking it way deeper this year.


Sorry to write so much but still upset at all the trash that was thrown at me before the season started.

 

[sclawman77]

Dude, I commend you for your unwavering faith. Take your victory lap. The season isn't over though with Clemson in a few weeks. Shane has probably earned himself an extension after the season.

I think a few of us jumped on you a little because you said months back you were printing out every negative Beamer post from here at work from years past and collecting them at home or something like that. It just sounded a little fruity. But Beamer has shut up the critics this season. No doubt.

But like I said, take your victory lap. I enjoy your contribution to the board. And let's beat Clemson.

 

[Lurker123]

Yep, run with your "I told you so". You earned it.

If you stay a gamecock fan for more than this year, you'll understand the repetitive let downs that lead to the responses you got.

 

[sclawman77]

Yep, run with your "I told you so". You earned it.

If you stay a gamecock fan for more than this year, you'll understand the repetitive let downs that lead to the responses you got.

Yep, when you've witnessed so many heartbreaking losses/results as a Carolina fan over a lifetime it's easy to resort back to that "doom and gloom" mentality and assume the worst. Like the poster said the other day, being a Carolina fan builds character.

 

[Ward Jr]

I took so much flak back in August when I tried to tell people on here how good this team could be. People thought I was absolutely wrong. I will not repeat some of what was said but I thought it was funny to be accused of being on the BOT.

The following is some of what I said…

I know after last year's let down; it is hard to get hyped.

For some reason it seems I remember in 2022 people were saying 2024 was going to be a big year for us. Several of the recruits we were hoping for back then did sign on last year. I do not remember what it was about this year that seemed so different, but maybe 2024 will be the year. We really do have some decent talent now.

Can Sellers show out like a future Heisman candidate?

Can the O-line stay healthy and not only protect Sellers but open up some holes for our running backs?

Can the RBs like Rocket get some 100 + yard games?

Can some of the new WR shine like Legette did last year?

Will Nick show why being so fast can be huge for a WR that can leave the other team's secondary back in dust?

Can our defense hold the other team to occasional FGs and start getting more INTs?

Even in the Clemson game the defense did not allow a TD. Can they continue to play like that, and our offense actually be scoring TDs?

Can our Special teams be explosive again? How many TDs will we get on special teams?

So many questions going through my mind.
I feel the talent is there and we have the coaches to develop that talent. But will it happen? Even Saban said it could be close.
I think after we see them play August 31, we might have some confidence back. But I think Sept 7 will really tell us what we might be able to expect this year.
But even beating UK don't mean much when you still have LSU, ALA, and OKL games to play.

Out of 12 games, 8 are already ranked in the pre-season. Does that help calm the hype or not? Sadly, for me, No.

How do I feel? I feel we are all going to be surprised and impressed with our team this year. I just printed this and taped it to my office wall.


Then later that week I posted this in a thread…Aug 26, 2024

8-4 and you can quote me all season long if you want. But I sure hope a couple will be willing to apologize when it happens.


I have been a Gamecock since 1976. I have gotten my feelings hurt a bunch. But I sure am glad I was right this year. Now I feel I was wrong about 8-4. I think we will do 9-3. Some people were swearing we would have 7 loses this season.

Sellers is outstanding and getting better every week. He will be better than Rattler was. And like I said, he is like another RB out there. Very hard to tackle and has a great arm even when running.

Our O line has stayed healthy and they are getting better too. Having so many on the roster (16 OL on the roster) to substitute and give them breathers has been huge this year. Great planning by Beamer.

Our D is like watching the Fire Ant D again. So, so good. Way to go Clayton.

Our Special teams is not so special yet but Kai Kroeger is kicking it way deeper this year.


Sorry to write so much but still upset at all the trash that was thrown at me before the season started.

A BOT for every occasion.

Now do the rest of your accounts, back-patter.

 

[hahnenkampf]

I took so much flak back in August when I tried to tell people on here how good this team could be. People thought I was absolutely wrong. I will not repeat some of what was said but I thought it was funny to be accused of being on the BOT.

The following is some of what I said…

I know after last year's let down; it is hard to get hyped.

For some reason it seems I remember in 2022 people were saying 2024 was going to be a big year for us. Several of the recruits we were hoping for back then did sign on last year. I do not remember what it was about this year that seemed so different, but maybe 2024 will be the year. We really do have some decent talent now.

Can Sellers show out like a future Heisman candidate?

Can the O-line stay healthy and not only protect Sellers but open up some holes for our running backs?

Can the RBs like Rocket get some 100 + yard games?

Can some of the new WR shine like Legette did last year?

Will Nick show why being so fast can be huge for a WR that can leave the other team's secondary back in dust?

Can our defense hold the other team to occasional FGs and start getting more INTs?

Even in the Clemson game the defense did not allow a TD. Can they continue to play like that, and our offense actually be scoring TDs?

Can our Special teams be explosive again? How many TDs will we get on special teams?

So many questions going through my mind.
I feel the talent is there and we have the coaches to develop that talent. But will it happen? Even Saban said it could be close.
I think after we see them play August 31, we might have some confidence back. But I think Sept 7 will really tell us what we might be able to expect this year.
But even beating UK don't mean much when you still have LSU, ALA, and OKL games to play.

Out of 12 games, 8 are already ranked in the pre-season. Does that help calm the hype or not? Sadly, for me, No.

How do I feel? I feel we are all going to be surprised and impressed with our team this year. I just printed this and taped it to my office wall.


Then later that week I posted this in a thread…Aug 26, 2024

8-4 and you can quote me all season long if you want. But I sure hope a couple will be willing to apologize when it happens.


I have been a Gamecock since 1976. I have gotten my feelings hurt a bunch. But I sure am glad I was right this year. Now I feel I was wrong about 8-4. I think we will do 9-3. Some people were swearing we would have 7 loses this season.

Sellers is outstanding and getting better every week. He will be better than Rattler was. And like I said, he is like another RB out there. Very hard to tackle and has a great arm even when running.

Our O line has stayed healthy and they are getting better too. Having so many on the roster (16 OL on the roster) to substitute and give them breathers has been huge this year. Great planning by Beamer.

Our D is like watching the Fire Ant D again. So, so good. Way to go Clayton.

Our Special teams is not so special yet but Kai Kroeger is kicking it way deeper this year.


Sorry to write so much but still upset at all the trash that was thrown at me before the season started.

I don’t see anything wrong with those questions — they are all legitimate. The statements are also just fine…..it’s what you’ll find on all sport’s boards. I’m glad you were correct on your perspective but don’t criticize others who were more skeptical. Here’s your ⭐️ for being correct.

 

[Southern Fried Chicken]

I took so much flak back in August when I tried to tell people on here how good this team could be. People thought I was absolutely wrong. I will not repeat some of what was said but I thought it was funny to be accused of being on the BOT.

The following is some of what I said…

I know after last year's let down; it is hard to get hyped.

For some reason it seems I remember in 2022 people were saying 2024 was going to be a big year for us. Several of the recruits we were hoping for back then did sign on last year. I do not remember what it was about this year that seemed so different, but maybe 2024 will be the year. We really do have some decent talent now.

Can Sellers show out like a future Heisman candidate?

Can the O-line stay healthy and not only protect Sellers but open up some holes for our running backs?

Can the RBs like Rocket get some 100 + yard games?

Can some of the new WR shine like Legette did last year?

Will Nick show why being so fast can be huge for a WR that can leave the other team's secondary back in dust?

Can our defense hold the other team to occasional FGs and start getting more INTs?

Even in the Clemson game the defense did not allow a TD. Can they continue to play like that, and our offense actually be scoring TDs?

Can our Special teams be explosive again? How many TDs will we get on special teams?

So many questions going through my mind.
I feel the talent is there and we have the coaches to develop that talent. But will it happen? Even Saban said it could be close.
I think after we see them play August 31, we might have some confidence back. But I think Sept 7 will really tell us what we might be able to expect this year.
But even beating UK don't mean much when you still have LSU, ALA, and OKL games to play.

Out of 12 games, 8 are already ranked in the pre-season. Does that help calm the hype or not? Sadly, for me, No.

How do I feel? I feel we are all going to be surprised and impressed with our team this year. I just printed this and taped it to my office wall.


Then later that week I posted this in a thread…Aug 26, 2024

8-4 and you can quote me all season long if you want. But I sure hope a couple will be willing to apologize when it happens.


I have been a Gamecock since 1976. I have gotten my feelings hurt a bunch. But I sure am glad I was right this year. Now I feel I was wrong about 8-4. I think we will do 9-3. Some people were swearing we would have 7 loses this season.

Sellers is outstanding and getting better every week. He will be better than Rattler was. And like I said, he is like another RB out there. Very hard to tackle and has a great arm even when running.

Our O line has stayed healthy and they are getting better too. Having so many on the roster (16 OL on the roster) to substitute and give them breathers has been huge this year. Great planning by Beamer.

Our D is like watching the Fire Ant D again. So, so good. Way to go Clayton.

Our Special teams is not so special yet but Kai Kroeger is kicking it way deeper this year.


Sorry to write so much but still upset at all the trash that was thrown at me before the season started.

YOU were RIGHT!!! I was WRONG!!!

I am sincerely GLAD that YOU were Right and that I was WRONG! I hope and pray that this is only the beginning of an era of success and victory which faithful fans, such as yourself, may enjoy for years to come. GOOD JOB!!!

 

[hahnenkampf]

Yep, when you've witnessed so many heartbreaking losses/results as a Carolina fan over a lifetime it's easy to resort back to that "doom and gloom" mentality and assume the worst. Like the poster said the other day, being a Carolina fan builds character.

Indeed! When a person has been a Gamecock fan for 50 years he’s earned his right to be skeptical.

 

[AikenGameFan]

Indeed! When a person has been a Gamecock fan for 50 years he’s earned his right to be skeptical.

Well in two more years I will hit 50 years as a fan. And yes, everyone does have the right to be skeptical. I have been let down many times myself.
But I see Beamer out there trying to bring better talent here not just in the portal, but also with some really good recruits. He may even be stealing some that are committed elsewhere.
If they can win these next 2 games, he will definitely draw in more talent.
I know we will be losing some players to Graduation, but I do not think we will lose as many to the portal this year like we did the last couple.
I just really feel this team will win out and we may all be more encouraged going to next year.
And for all those wondering, we do not even have a new AD yet so Shane may not get any new extensions this year.
But I still feel that he will be here a long time like his dad was at WVU. Maybe not 29 years, but maybe 20.

 

[hahnenkampf]

Well in two more years I will hit 50 years as a fan. And yes, everyone does have the right to be skeptical. I have been let down many times myself.
But I see Beamer out there trying to bring better talent here not just in the portal, but also with some really good recruits. He may even be stealing some that are committed elsewhere.
If they can win these next 2 games, he will definitely draw in more talent.
I know we will be losing some players to Graduation, but I do not think we will lose as many to the portal this year like we did the last couple.
I just really feel this team will win out and we may all be more encouraged going to next year.
And for all those wondering, we do not even have a new AD yet so Shane may not get any new extensions this year.
But I still feel that he will be here a long time like his dad was at WVU. Maybe not 29 years, but maybe 20.

I think we’ll lose a lot of young talent to the portal. The kids these days are going to strike for big bucks when they can. For example, let’s say Norris entered the portal next month; he’d easily command $1+ million. He has the full portfolio of talent: size, arm, speed, elusiveness.

 

[uscwatson21]

The problem is, I was right last year. You're right this year. So the question remains, are you right because you correctly analyzed the information or were you just optimistic and got lucky things ran hot this year?

There is too much of a rush to say, "I told you so."

The last few weeks have been a lot of fun, and I hope Beamer proves me wrong. Honestly, if we beat Clemson in year 4 there is an argument that Beamer may be surpassing Dabo and that he was the right hire. But I don't think any real Gamecock fan would be surprised if we take a step back next year.

 

[Lurker123]

I think we’ll lose a lot of young talent to the portal. The kids these days are going to strike for big bucks when they can. For example, let’s say Norris entered the portal next month; he’d easily command $1+ million. He has the full portfolio of talent: size, arm, speed, elusiveness.

Elsewhere, someone posted a two deep showing just those being lost to graduation, and then added potential NFL losses.

Before the first transfer, this defense is going to be decimated.

Enjoy this season as much as possible. Worry about next year later.

 

[Southern Fried Chicken]

But I still feel that he will be here a long time like his dad was at WVU. Maybe not 29 years, but maybe 20.

VPI, not WVU.

 

[Ward Jr]

The problem is, I was right last year. You're right this year. So the question remains, are you right because you correctly analyzed the information or were you just optimistic and got lucky things ran hot this year?

There is too much of a rush to say, "I told you so."

The last few weeks have been a lot of fun, and I hope Beamer proves me wrong. Honestly, if we beat Clemson in year 4 there is an argument that Beamer may be surpassing Dabo and that he was the right hire. But I don't think any real Gamecock fan would be surprised if we take a step back next year.

You're sounding ridiculous and desparate at this point.

Beamer is the best performing coach we've had over 48 games which is not a small sample size.

He's also performing better in Year 4 than any other coach we've had in history.

He's got a fraction of the budget that other teams have for talent.

He's had to deal with losing some of his best talent each season

He's got a tougher SEC East.

He's got to deal with newly added Texas and Oklahoma.

If we take a step back next year, it's because we can't buy a bunch of instant stars like other teams can.

You either need some light in that Foxhole or to be put on Paxil.

 

[uscwatson21]

You're sounding ridiculous and desparate at this point.

Beamer is the best performing coach we've had over 48 games which is not a small sample size.

He's also performing better in Year 4 than any other coach we've had in history.

He's got a fraction of the budget that other teams have for talent.

He's had to deal with losing some of his best talent each season

He's got a tougher SEC East.

He's got to deal with newly added Texas and Oklahoma.

If we take a step back next year, it's because we can't buy a bunch of instant stars like other teams can.

You either need some light in that Foxhole or to be put on Paxil.

This is why education is so important.

You can’t even consider the option that Beamer has benefited from NIL. Without that consideration, you’re going to always miss the forest for the trees.

 

[Ward Jr]

This is why education is so important.

You can’t even consider the option that Beamer has benefited from NIL. Without that consideration, you’re going to always miss the forest for the trees.

OK.

 

[GoCocksFight2021]

I took so much flak back in August when I tried to tell people on here how good this team could be. People thought I was absolutely wrong. I will not repeat some of what was said but I thought it was funny to be accused of being on the BOT.

The following is some of what I said…

I know after last year's let down; it is hard to get hyped.

For some reason it seems I remember in 2022 people were saying 2024 was going to be a big year for us. Several of the recruits we were hoping for back then did sign on last year. I do not remember what it was about this year that seemed so different, but maybe 2024 will be the year. We really do have some decent talent now.

Can Sellers show out like a future Heisman candidate?

Can the O-line stay healthy and not only protect Sellers but open up some holes for our running backs?

Can the RBs like Rocket get some 100 + yard games?

Can some of the new WR shine like Legette did last year?

Will Nick show why being so fast can be huge for a WR that can leave the other team's secondary back in dust?

Can our defense hold the other team to occasional FGs and start getting more INTs?

Even in the Clemson game the defense did not allow a TD. Can they continue to play like that, and our offense actually be scoring TDs?

Can our Special teams be explosive again? How many TDs will we get on special teams?

So many questions going through my mind.
I feel the talent is there and we have the coaches to develop that talent. But will it happen? Even Saban said it could be close.
I think after we see them play August 31, we might have some confidence back. But I think Sept 7 will really tell us what we might be able to expect this year.
But even beating UK don't mean much when you still have LSU, ALA, and OKL games to play.

Out of 12 games, 8 are already ranked in the pre-season. Does that help calm the hype or not? Sadly, for me, No.

How do I feel? I feel we are all going to be surprised and impressed with our team this year. I just printed this and taped it to my office wall.


Then later that week I posted this in a thread…Aug 26, 2024

8-4 and you can quote me all season long if you want. But I sure hope a couple will be willing to apologize when it happens.


I have been a Gamecock since 1976. I have gotten my feelings hurt a bunch. But I sure am glad I was right this year. Now I feel I was wrong about 8-4. I think we will do 9-3. Some people were swearing we would have 7 loses this season.

Sellers is outstanding and getting better every week. He will be better than Rattler was. And like I said, he is like another RB out there. Very hard to tackle and has a great arm even when running.

Our O line has stayed healthy and they are getting better too. Having so many on the roster (16 OL on the roster) to substitute and give them breathers has been huge this year. Great planning by Beamer.

Our D is like watching the Fire Ant D again. So, so good. Way to go Clayton.

Our Special teams is not so special yet but Kai Kroeger is kicking it way deeper this year.


Sorry to write so much but still upset at all the trash that was thrown at me before the season started.

Yes, you absolutely can. Well done. I didn't even think 8 wins was possible.

 

[Flameout12]

I was the one who claimed Shane would be a good coach for us back when hired because "he wanted to be here".

I deserve recognition.

 

[gamecock stock]

I said 7 wins prior to the season. Most here said "no way".

 

[uscwatson21]

I said 7 wins prior to the season. Most here said "no way".

To be fair, no one expected the SEC to be so bad this year.

 

[gamecock stock]

To be fair, no one expected the SEC to be so bad this year.

My reasoning was that in Beamer's 4th season, the staff he settled on should be set for success. And Beamer's undeniable success in the Transfer Portal was bringing in quality players who would give us an edge.

 

[Ward Jr]

I said 7 wins prior to the season. Most here said "no way".

You also said a lot of other stuff.

We'll give you an honorable mention on the BOT Team, but "Aiken BOT" takes this season.

 

[Ward Jr]

To be fair, no one expected the SEC to be so bad this year.

SEC has 8 teams in the Top 25. The NIL has created more parity among the big players, but that was to be expected. Try again.

 

[uscwatson21]

SEC has 8 teams in the Top 25. The NIL has created more parity among the big players, but that was to be expected. Try again.

That many teams in the Top 25 is purely based on name recognition and not performance.

 

[gamecock stock]

You also said a lot of other stuff.

We'll give you an honorable mention on the BOT Team, but "Aiken BOT" takes this season.

Your projecting knows no bounds as it relates to saying lots of stuff. Nobody does trolling better than you. And I say all that with a kind heart.

 

[Ward Jr]

That many teams in the Top 25 is purely based on name recognition and not performance.

So how do you explain the ESPN Power Rankings which are even more favorable with 5 SEC teams in the Top 10 and 11 teams in the Top 25?

They factor in interconference, OCC, SOS, and all of the goodies.

I'll hang up and listen.

https://www.espn.com/college-football/fpi

 

[gamecock stock]

I hope we make the playoffs if we beat Clemson. But even if we don't, beating Clemson and winning our bowl, will probably put us into the Top 15. In 100+ years of football, we have finished in the Top 15 only 6 times. If we can do that this year, no one should complain.

Go Gamecocks! Beat Clemson. And I would not mind it if no prisoners are taken.

 

[uscwatson21]

I hope we make the playoffs if we beat Clemson. But even if we don't, beating Clemson and winning our bowl, will probably put us into the Top 15. In 100+ years of football, we have finished in the Top 15 only 6 times. If we can do that this year, no one should complain.

Go Gamecocks! Beat Clemson. And I would not mind it if no prisoners are taken.

It's going to be interesting to see how the season is viewed if we lose to Clemson.

 

[Ward Jr]

It's going to be interesting to see how the season is viewed if we lose to Clemson.

By you or by actual Gamecock Fans?

 

[GoCocksFight2021]

My reasoning was that in Beamer's 4th season, the staff he settled on should be set for success. And Beamer's undeniable success in the Transfer Portal was bringing in quality players who would give us an edge.

It's not just about portal success. It's about player development. The entire staff has done an incredible job at developing players. Nobody was talking about Kennard before the season, and he has been on fire. And it's all over the field on both sides of the ball. That gives me hope for the coming years.

But it is nice to see people pearl clutching that we might be BAD "next year". I remember when "next year" meant we were stinking it up this year but had hopes for next year being better. Feels like a culture shift. Time will tell.

 

[AikenGameFan]

I would love a win against Clemson and then a bowl win. That would make us 10-3 and keep us ranked in the top 15. I never even suggested 10 wins this season.
After watching all the Sr's walking out there Saturday, you do have to be concerned about next season. So many of our D starters will be gone. Some really good portal players will be gone.
But we do know we have a coach that really knows how to use the portal to fill spots, and right now the recruiting class is looking good. Stewart coming in and doing so much as a freshmen will attract even better recruits.

 

[Lurker123]

I would love a win against Clemson and then a bowl win. That would make us 10-3 and keep us ranked in the top 15. I never even suggested 10 wins this season.
After watching all the Sr's walking out there Saturday, you do have to be concerned about next season. So many of our D starters will be gone. Some really good portal players will be gone.
But we do know we have a coach that really knows how to use the portal to fill spots, and right now the recruiting class is looking good. Stewart coming in and doing so much as a freshmen will attract even better recruits.

I read somewhere that we had over 30 seniors on the team.

Normally a cause for concern, but this is the new era of college football. The teams will be basically rebuilt every year through the portal.

Stock caught onto something earlier, linking our portal rankings to season results. It's not a direct correlation, but an interesting trend.

 

[AikenGameFan]

I read somewhere that we had over 30 seniors on the team.

Normally a cause for concern, but this is the new era of college football. The teams will be basically rebuilt every year through the portal.

Stock caught onto something earlier, linking our portal rankings to season results. It's not a direct correlation, but an interesting trend.

See my other post about roster limit

 

[gamecock stock]

It's not just about portal success. It's about player development. The entire staff has done an incredible job at developing players. Nobody was talking about Kennard before the season, and he has been on fire. And it's all over the field on both sides of the ball. That gives me hope for the coming years.

But it is nice to see people pearl clutching that we might be BAD "next year". I remember when "next year" meant we were stinking it up this year but had hopes for next year being better. Feels like a culture shift. Time will tell.

I agree, too, about the "player development". I don't know who you are referring to about "pearl clutching" that we might be bad next year. As for me, I'm cautiously optimistic on the basis that Beamer overachieved in years 1, 2 and 4. By Year 4, you should have a good idea as to what you have in a coach. To me, the Oklahoma and Texas A&M games this season told me that Beamer can get it done because both those programs have far better talent than we do. Yet, we beat them both, easily. Those 2 games are what give me hope for the coming years. That's the "optimistic" part in me. We are never going to outrecruit most of the traditional powers, NIL-wealth or no NIL- wealth. We are going to have to get it done on the coaching front, like we have done this season. What makes me "cautious" about next year? We have the 3rd most seniors on a team in the nation. So, there's lots of replacing that has to be done. Let's hope that Beamer has Transfer Portal results like he had in Years one and three in the Portal, not like Year 2. It's no coincidence to me that Beamer produced a nationally-ranked team in the years following Top 10 Transfer Portal classes.

 

[gamecock stock]

It's going to be interesting to see how the season is viewed if we lose to Clemson.

Speaking for myself, I would still look at the season as a huge success. That being said, I think we will beat them. Now, I'm talking as a biased fan. But, I have good reason to believe that. Our strength is our defense. Their strength is offense. As the old adage goes: Defense wins games. And we have played a much tougher schedule than Clemson. That will help us in this game. We shall see.

 

[hahnenkampf]

I read somewhere that we had over 30 seniors on the team.

Normally a cause for concern, but this is the new era of college football. The teams will be basically rebuilt every year through the portal.

Stock caught onto something earlier, linking our portal rankings to season results. It's not a direct correlation, but an interesting trend.

Agree totally; the transfer portal gives every team an opportunity to completely rebuild their team. They win with some choices and lose with others. Case in point: Juice Wells turned out to be a bad choice by Ole Miss. Wells seemed to lose proficiency by sitting out last year.

 

[AikenGameFan]

After hearing all the ways that Oklahoma and A&M and Vanderbilt and then Mizzou were going to kill us, and watching how our team answered, I feel a lot more comfortable predicting another win.
I know. That sounds crazy. How can a Gamecock fan be COMFORTABLE.
Well, our team is just finally that good. And yes, a good D will beat a good O, but we also have a pretty good O ourselves.
I just feel we will be able to score against them and Sellers will really stand out this game It would be great to get a big enough lead so that Ashford will get a chance to play some.

 

[AikenGameFan]

Agree totally; the transfer portal gives every team an opportunity to completely rebuild their team. They win with some choices and lose with others. Case in point: Juice Wells turned out to be a bad choice by Ole Miss. Wells seemed to lose proficiency by sitting out last year.

Look how they turned out. Guys like Rocket, Kennard, Adaway, Campbell, Jules, Brown, and many more. Beamer has made some really good choices in who he offered, and it sure did pay off. Sad that some only had 1 season left. But others like Simon got a second year and sure has shown what he can do. And Beamer is already shopping for this year.

I really think it would be huge if Dunbar got in the Portal and got to come home. His Sr. year in HS here in SC, 2023, here are his stats; 283 rushes for 3065 yards. 43 TD's 92yrd. for a long and 10.9 avg per run with 236.5 per game. Most games when they had the lead, coach would pull Trae. He was 4AAAA Offensive Player of the Year.
Hardesty was a fool not to offer him thinking that kid from Alabama would come here instead of Bama. And Trae ended up with way better stats than that kid. Glad Shane fired him.
Trae finally just went to West Virginia because they offered and stayed on it the whole time. But he has not played any this season because WV had 3 decent RB's on their roster already. I sure hope he gets in the portal.

 

[Lurker123]

After hearing all the ways that Oklahoma and A&M and Vanderbilt and then Mizzou were going to kill us, and watching how our team answered, I feel a lot more comfortable predicting another win.

Vanderbilt? I was with you except for that.

 

[Lurker123]

I don't know who you are referring to about "pearl clutching" that we might be bad next year.

No one else does either.

But yours was a good summation. I would differ on the OU game, but only because I feel like they fell completely apart this season. Other than the Bama game, they've looked like crap all year.

I'm sure we'll both be eagerly watching the portal ratings this year.