Oct. 1, 2009

The University of South Carolina football team (3-1, 1-1 SEC) worked out Thursday afternoon at the Bluff Road practice fields as they continued preparations for Saturday’s in-state matchup with South Carolina State. The Bulldogs (3-0) will come to Columbia for a 7 p.m. kick, which will be televised nationally on ESPN Classic.

“Stephen (Garcia) is ready to play,” said head coach Steve Spurrier of his quarterback situation following Thursday’s practice. “He’s ok. He hasn’t practiced a whole lot, but he’s fine. He’ll be ready to play. Reid (McCollum) is ready to play too. He has practiced more this week than any since he’s been here. There’s a chance even if the game is close at some point we may put Reid in and see if he can do some good.

“We hoping to play eight or nine players (on the offensive line) throughout the game,” continued Coach Spurrier. “I will tell you that Garrett Chisolm is going to play. If I have to personally put him in, he’s going to play. I’ve watched him in practice and he’s a pretty good player. Number 77. So he’ll be out there. He’s playing right tackle right now. I think Hutch Eckerson is slated to start at right tackle and “Chis” is behind him.” Starter Quintin Richardson has missed the last couple of practices due to illness.