January 14, 2002

COLUMBIA, S.C. – After receiving further information Monday afternoon regarding an incident involving USC runningback Derek Watson over the weekend, Watson, a junior from Williamston, S.C., has been dismissed from the Gamecock football team. The dismissal was announced by USC head coach Lou Holtz.

“I feel badly for Derek, but he clearly understood that if he chose to do certain things, he would no longer be a part of the USC football team,” said head coach Lou Holtz. “I truly care about Derek as a person.”

In accordance with the legal process, Watson has legal options available to him with every right to prove his innocence in this matter.

Watson, a junior from Williamston, S.C., has led the Gamecocks in rushing two of the past three seasons. His career rushing totals are 437 carries for 2,078 yards and 16 touchdowns. Also a talented pass receiver, Watson has 58 receptions for 466 yards and two touchdowns during his career.