Oct. 24, 2008

The executive committee of the University of South Carolina’s Board of Trustees today approved a contract extension for Gamecock defensive coordinator Ellis Johnson.

Johnson, in his first season with the Gamecocks, had one year added to his current contract, extending it through the end of the 2011 season.

“This is a tremendous statement to our recruits that Coach Ellis Johnson is going to be here and that I’m going to be here for several more years,” said Head Coach Steve Spurrier. “Ellis has done a super job with our defense, which is No. 1 in the SEC and ranked in the top 10 in the country. Our goal is to win the SEC Championship. Hopefully we will be able to do that in the next couple of years.”

The Gamecocks (5-3, 2-3 SEC) are ranked first in the SEC and sixth in the country in total defense, allowing an average of 256.1 yards per game. The unit is ranked fourth in the nation in pass defense (140.4 yards per game), 19th in scoring defense (16.1 points per game) and 34th in rushing defense (115.7).

“I’m very thankful to Coach Spurrier and the administration for the vote of confidence,” said Johnson. “What we have been able to accomplish is due to the efforts of our coaches and players. I’m excited about being at South Carolina and my family is very happy to be here as well.”