April 6, 2002

South Carolina went through its second major scrimmage of spring practice Saturday, going through more than 140 plays at Williams-Brice Stadium.

Coach Lou Holtz said he needed to study the film before he could make any firm evaluations, but he did note that the scrimmage was “hard-hitting, and for the most part, the offense protected the football.” Coach Holtz was disappointed in the fact that there were 11 holding penalties called, with 10 of those going against the offense. There were no interceptions and only one fumble.

The receivers dropped six passes. “I’m worried about our passing game,” said Coach Holtz. “We don’t do a good job of getting open and we don’t do a good job of catching the ball.”

Coach Holtz stated that Corey Jenkins, a rising senior from Columbia, had established himself as the #1 quarterback. “Corey is a natural leader and has been impressive,” said Holtz. Coach Holtz also said that Dondrial Pinkins, a rising redshirt sophomore, had shown improvement towards the end of Saturday’s scrimmage. “Dondrial looked good the final two series,” said Holtz. “He needs to become more assertive and exert himself more as a leader.”

Jenkins did display his multi-talents during the two-hour scrimmage. He opened the scrimmage with a 29-yard run, then hit Ryan Brewer for an 11-yard pass play. Later on in the scrimmage, Jenkins completed a 21-yard pass to tight end Hart Turner and then connected with Turner again for a 29-yard gain.

Runningback Andrew Pinnock was likewise impressive. The rising senior scored on a 25-yard touchdown run and also scored on an 11-yard run.

Wide receiver Ricky Ricks led the receiving corps, with catches that covered 12, 8, 34, and 15 yards.

Redshirt freshman tailback Thez Robinson ripped off a 37-yard run, while true freshman Daccus Turman scored from one yard out on the very next play.

Defensive standouts included linebacker Jermaine Lemon, who had several tackles for loss, and end Dennis Quinn, who had two quarterback sacks.

Coach Holtz said he has been impressed with the play of rising junior Dunta Robinson, who was moved from spur to cornerback prior to the spring. “Dunta is a natural cornerback,” said Holtz. “He has had an excellent spring and closes on the ball exceptionally well.”

Coach Holtz also pointed out the improved play of tight end Hart Turner. “Hart has established himself as our starting tight end,” said Holtz. “He runs his routes better now and has become a good blocker.”

Injuries to report included: TB/WR Ryan Brewer (ankle), OL Na’shan Goddard (ankle), LB Lenny Williams (ankle). All will be reevaluated on Monday.

The Gamecocks return to the practice field Tuesday for a corrective session. Coach Holtz will be available to the media after practice. The SID office will alert the media to the time of that availability. Tuesday’s practice is closed.