Oct. 26, 2006

Columbia, S.C. – The University of South Carolina football team (5-2, 3-2 SEC) took to the practice field in perfect conditions on Thursday. The Gamecocks host No. 8 Tennessee (6-1, 2-1 SEC) at 7:45 p.m. Saturday. The game will be televised live by ESPN and ESPNHD. Following Thursday’s practice, Coach Steve Spurrier met with the media.

On how the team’s preparation changes for Tennessee: “We just had a normal week. Our atmosphere and environment doesn’t change a whole lot. It probably doesn’t for Tennessee or Florida or Georgia or any of those other teams. We all try to get ready and play the best we can every week no matter who the opponent is.”

On any extra time commitments with ESPN GameDay in town: “No. I try to keep the same week no matter who comes. I try to have the normal week we always have.”

Defensive coordinator Tyrone Nix also addressed the media.

On what Tennessee has done offensively this year and how they have improved from a year ago: “They’re doing a great job of getting the football out of his hands and the offensive line is doing a good job of protecting him. They’re making plays. You look and they’re leading the SEC in passing yards per ballgame. They’re doing smart things with the ball.