Sept. 4, 2002

Columbia, SC – * With its road game against the University of Virginia drawing nearer, the 22nd-ranked South Carolina Gamecocks continued fine tuning its defense during Wednesday’s practice in 90 plus degree temperatures in Columbia. “We’re taking a close look at the defense, but I also believe that last week’s performance was not typical of how our defense will play,” said head coach Lou Holtz. “We did have problems with third down, we did have problems with the option, we did have problems with the long pass, and we did have problems with the short pass … other than that, I think we’ve got it figured out.”

* Working at cornerback this week have been Dunta Robinson, Gonzie Gray, Rachiem Monroe, Taqiy Muhammad, Brian Elam, Teddy Crawford, and Andrea Gause. Coach Holtz has been working closely with this position this week. “I think the cornerbacks will be glad when the game comes around because I won’t be spending my entire time with them then,” said Holtz.

* Coach Holtz said that the Gamecocks will need to tackle well Saturday night against the Cavaliers. “They do a lot of things well offensively, and we will need to wrap up the ball carriers and receivers,” said Holtz.

* Coach Holtz mentioned that Columbia native Lance Laury had a good showing in his first collegiate action this past Saturday night. “Lance is a player; I really like him,” said Coach Holtz. “He’s around the ball and he’s not afraid to hit you.”

* There have been no new injuries to report this week during practice.

* USC will depart via charter aircraft for Charlottesville on Friday afternoon. More than 7,500 USC fans will make the trip this weekend. ESPN will televise the game nationally.