Team Information
Ground | Carlisle-Faulkner Field at M.M. Roberts Stadium |
City | Hattiesburg, Mississippi |
Conference | Sun Belt, West Division |
Nickname | Golden Eagles |
About Southern Miss Golden Eagles Football
The South Carolina Gamecocks football program, representing the University of South Carolina, is a formidable force in collegiate sports. Competing in the NCAA Football Bowl Subdivision and the SEC Eastern Division, they are led by head coach Shane Beamer. Their home ground, Williams–Brice Stadium, echoes with the fervor of loyal fans. Established in 1892, the Gamecocks boast a storied history, including an ACC Championship in 1969 and an SEC East Division title in 2010. South Carolina football continues to captivate fans nationwide with a legacy of coaching excellence and notable alumni like Heisman Trophy winner George Rogers. Join us as we explore the journey of South Carolina Gamecocks Football!
Name of Team | South Carolina Gamecocks Football |
First season | 1892 |
Athletic director | Ray Tanner |
Head coach | Shane Beamer |
Stadium | Williams–Brice Stadium |
Location | Columbia, South Carolina |
Conference | Southeastern Conference |
Division | East |
Field surface | Grass |
Conference titles | 1 (1969) |
Division titles | 1 (2010) |
Fight song | "The Fighting Gamecocks Lead the Way" |
Mascot | Cocky, Sir Big Spur |
Rivals | Clemson (rivalry)Georgia (rivalry)North Carolina (rivalry) |
Consensus All-Americans | 4 |
South Carolina Gamecocks Football Introduction
The South Carolina Gamecocks football program, representing the University of South Carolina, is a powerhouse in collegiate football. Competing in the Football Bowl Subdivision of the NCAA, they belong to the Eastern Division of the Southeastern Conference (SEC). Led by head coach Shane Beamer, the Gamecocks exhibit a relentless spirit on the field. Their home games reverberate through Williams–Brice Stadium, where fans passionately support their team.
Established in 1892, South Carolina's football legacy is marked by remarkable achievements. The Gamecocks have consistently showcased their prowess, from winning the 1969 ACC Championship to claiming the SEC East Division title in 2010. Notable figures like Heisman Trophy winner George Rogers and NFL Draft top picks George Rogers and Jadeveon Clowney have emerged from their ranks.
South Carolina's coaching excellence is evident with luminaries like Lou Holtz and Steve Spurrier, both SEC Coaches of the Year. Their rich history also includes five members of the College Football Hall of Fame, including players George Rogers and Sterling Sharpe, coaches Holtz and Spurrier, and former Athletic Director Mike McGee. The Gamecocks stand as a testament to the enduring legacy of South Carolina football.
South Carolina Gamecocks Football History
Founded on Christmas Eve in 1892, the South Carolina Gamecocks football team embarked on a journey marked by determination and passion. Initially not sanctioned by the university, the team exhibited resilience, providing their own uniforms and covering their travel expenses. Their first victory came in their third season in 1895, under the guidance of their first head coach, W. H. "Dixie" Whaley.
Throughout its history, South Carolina has been affiliated with various conferences, including the Southern Conference, Atlantic Coast Conference, and currently, the Southeastern Conference (SEC). Notable achievements include their lone conference title in 1969 and division title in 2010.
The Gamecocks boast a rich tradition of rivalries, most notably against Clemson in the Palmetto Bowl, dating back to 1896. This rivalry, marked by intense competition, has captivated fans for generations. South Carolina's football legacy is also defined by its dedicated fan base, clad in garnet and black, passionately supporting their team through victories and defeats.
With a proud record of 635–612–44 (.509) and appearances in numerous bowl games, South Carolina Gamecocks Football continues to forge its path, embodying the spirit of determination and resilience that defines the university and its community.
South Carolina Gamecocks Football Coach
South Carolina Gamecocks Football has seen a legacy of leadership with 36 head coaches since its inception in 1892. Among them, Steve Spurrier stands out as the winningest head coach in program history, having led the team from 2005 to 2015.
Shane Beamer took the reins as the 36th head coach in 2020. Representing the University of South Carolina in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), Beamer leads the Gamecocks with passion and determination. With a rich background in football, including playing experience and coaching stints at various institutions, Beamer brings a wealth of knowledge to the program.
Head Coach: Shane Beamer
Shane Beamer, an American football coach and former player, currently serves as the head coach at the University of South Carolina. Shane Beamer, the son of former Virginia Tech football coach Frank Beamer, has made his mark in the coaching world. Notably, Beamer holds the distinction of being the highest-paid coach in school history. His coaching prowess is evident in his achievements, including being the first South Carolina coach to secure back-to-back victories against top 10 teams. Moreover, he's the first FBS coach since 1978 to achieve two wins by 20+ points as a 20+ point underdog.
Here is the list of South Carolina Gamecocks Football Head Coaches:
Coach | Years | Seasons | Record | Pct. |
Shane Beamer | 2021– present | 3 | 20–18 | .526 |
Mike Bobo † | 2020 | 1 | 0–3 | .000 |
Will Muschamp | 2016–2020 | 5 | 28–30 | .483 |
Shawn Elliott † | 2015 | 1 | 1–5 | .167 |
Steve Spurrier | 2005–2015 | 11 | 86–49 | .637 |
Lou Holtz | 1999–2004 | 6 | 33–37 | .471 |
Brad Scott | 1994–1998 | 5 | 23–32–1 | .420 |
Sparky Woods | 1989–1993 | 5 | 24–28–3 | .464 |
Joe Morrison | 1983–1988 | 6 | 39–28–2 | .580 |
Richard Bell | 1982 | 1 | 4–7 | .364 |
Jim Carlen | 1975–1981 | 7 | 45–36–1 | .555 |
Paul Dietzel | 1966–1974 | 9 | 42–53–1 | .443 |
Marvin Bass | 1961–1965 | 5 | 17–29–4 | .380 |
Warren Giese | 1956–1960 | 5 | 28–21–1 | .570 |
John D. McMillan | 1945 | 1 | 2–4–3 | .389 |
Williams Newton | 1944 | 1 | 3–4–2 | .444 |
James Moran Sr. | 1943 | 1 | 5–2 | .714 |
Rex Enright | 1938–1942, 1946–1955 | 15 | 64–69–7 | .482 |
Don McCallister | 1935–1937 | 3 | 13–20–1 | .397 |
Billy Laval | 1928–1934 | 7 | 39–26–6 | .592 |
Harry Lightsey | 1927 | 1 | 4–5 | .500 |
Branch Bocock | 1925–1926 | 2 | 13–7 | .650 |
Sol Metzger | 1920–1924 | 5 | 26–18–2 | .587 |
Frank Dobson | 1918 | 1 | 2–1–1 | .625 |
Dixon Foster | 1917, 1919 | 2 | 4–12–1 | .265 |
W. Rice Warren | 1916 | 1 | 2–7 | .222 |
Norman B. Edgerton | 1912–1915 | 4 | 19–13–3 | .586 |
John Neff | 1910–1911 | 2 | 5–8–2 | .400 |
Douglas McKay | 1907 | 1 | 3–0 | 1.000 |
No team | 1906 | |||
Christie Benet | 1904–1905, 1908–1909 | 4 | 13–16–3 | .453 |
Bob Williams | 1902–1903 | 2 | 14–3 | .824 |
Byron W. Dickson | 1901 | 1 | 3–4 | .429 |
Irving O. Hunt | 1899–1900 | 2 | 6–6 | .500 |
Bill Wertenbaker | 1898 | 1 | 1–2 | .333 |
Frederick M. Murphy | 1897 | 1 | 0–3 | .000 |
Richard S. Whaley | 1896 | 1 | 1–3 | .250 |
No coach | 1892–1895 | 4 | 2–4 | .333 |
South Carolina Gamecocks Football Rivals
South Carolina Gamecocks Football boasts several intense rivalries, each steeped in tradition and legacy, with coveted trophies adding to the excitement of these matchups.
Clemson: The Palmetto Bowl
One of the most heated rivalries in college football, the Palmetto Bowl pits the Gamecocks against the Clemson Tigers in an annual showdown. Dating back to 1896, this rivalry is the largest sporting event by ticket sales in South Carolina. The teams battle for supremacy, playing the series alternately at each team's home stadium since 1960.
Known for its intensity, the Palmetto Bowl has seen thrilling matchups over the years, with both teams exchanging victories. Clemson holds the series lead at 73–43–4, but the Gamecocks have displayed resilience, winning five consecutive games from 2009 to 2013. The Palmetto Bowl is more than just a football game; it's a source of pride for the entire state.
Georgia: The Border Battle
The rivalry between South Carolina and Georgia dates back to 1894, marking a historic border rivalry. This rivalry is a clash of titans, highlighted by iconic matchups, such as the 1980 game featuring Heisman Trophy winners George Rogers and Herschel Walker. Televised annually since 1997, the series has become increasingly competitive since South Carolina joined the SEC in 1992. Despite Georgia holding the series lead at 53–19–2, the Gamecocks have proven to be formidable opponents, challenging the Bulldogs in every encounter.
Missouri: The Mayor's Cup
A budding rivalry between South Carolina and Missouri, this matchup carries significance as both schools share the name Columbia. Emerging since Missouri's entry into the SEC East in 2012, the rivalry has intensified with each meeting. The annual game is a battle on the field and for the Mayor's Cup trophy, awarded by the mayors of Columbia, South Carolina, and Columbia, Missouri. While Missouri has secured victories in multiple bowl games against South Carolina, the Mayor's Cup provides motivation for both teams.
North Carolina: The Carolinas Clash
The rivalry between South Carolina and North Carolina dates back to 1903, symbolizing a clash between neighboring states. Despite no longer being conference rivals since South Carolina's departure from the ACC in 1971, the teams continue to meet occasionally. With South Carolina leading the series since 1967, this matchup is characterized by fierce competition and regional pride.
South Carolina Gamecocks Football Record and stats
South Carolina Gamecocks Football has secured one conference championship in its history. Under Coach Paul Dietzel's leadership, the Gamecocks achieved an impressive 7–4 overall record and a perfect 6–0 conference record, clinching the ACC championship.
The Gamecocks have competed in the SEC East division since 1992. While they have not secured a division championship, they have consistently contended for the title, including an appearance in the SEC Championship Game in 2010 against Auburn, resulting in a loss with a score of 17–56.
Conference championships
Season | Conference | Coach | Overall Record | Conference Record |
1969 | ACC | Paul Dietzel | 7–4 | 6–0 |
Division championships
Season | Division | Opponent | SEC CG Result |
2010 | SEC East | Auburn | L 17–56 |
South Carolina Gamecocks Football Roster
The Oklahoma Sooners Football Roster boasts a diverse array of talent across various positions.
Debo Williams from Smyrna, Del., and Jaron Willis from Leesburg, Ga., stand out among the linebackers.
On the defensive line, there's Elijah Davis from Wagener, S.C., and Monkell Goodwine from Upper Marlboro, Md.
In the secondary, names like DQ Smith from Columbia, S.C., and Nyck Harbor from Washington, D.C., shine. Offensively, Robby Ashford from Hoover, Ala., and Luke Doty from Myrtle Beach, S.C., led the charge at quarterback.
Wide receivers include Ahmari Huggins-Bruce from Dillon, S.C., and Gage Larvadain from Donaldsonville, La. The roster is filled with promising talent from various backgrounds, poised to impact the field for the Sooners.
South Carolina Gamecocks Football Schedule
The South Carolina Gamecocks Football Schedule features an exciting lineup of matchups throughout the regular season.
DATE | OPPONENT |
Sat, Aug 31 | vs Old Dominion |
Sat, Sep 7 | @ Kentucky |
Sat, Sep 14 | vs LSU |
Sat, Sep 21 | vs Akron |
Sat, Oct 5 | vs Ole Miss |
Sat, Oct 12 | @ Alabama |
Sat, Oct 19 | @ Oklahoma |
Sat, Nov 2 | vs Texas A&M |
Sat, Nov 9 | @ Vanderbilt |
Sat, Nov 16 | vs Missouri |
Sat, Nov 23 | vs Wofford |
Sat, Nov 30 | @ Clemson |
FAQ's On Southern Miss Golden Eagles Football
A. The South Carolina Gamecocks football program represents the University of South Carolina in the NCAA Football Bowl Subdivision, competing in the SEC Eastern Division.
A. Shane Beamer currently serves as the head coach of the South Carolina Gamecocks football team.
A. The South Carolina Gamecocks play their home games at Williams–Brice Stadium.
A. Notable coaches in the South Carolina Gamecocks football history including Lou Holtz, Steve Spurrier, and Shane Beamer, each contributing to the program's success.
A. The South Carolina Gamecocks' overall football record stands at 635–612–44.