Nov. 20, 2003

Columbia, S.C. – * South Carolina went through a light 100 minute workout on Thursday, as on the field preparations begin to wind down for Saturday night’s showdown with in-state rival Clemson. Kick off at Williams-Brice Stadium is 7:04 p.m. with ESPN2 televising nationally.

* On the injury front, center John Strickland is doubtful with an ankle sprain; offensive tackle Travelle Wharton is probable with an ankle sprain; DL Jason Capers is questionable with a back strain. Strickland has not practiced at all this week. Coach Lou Holtz said he anticipates that freshman Chris White will get the starting nod in Strickland’s place at center on Saturday.

* Coach Holtz said that freshman tailback Demetris Summers, who missed last week’s game against Florida while recovering from a concussion he suffered on Nov. 6 against Arkansas, has looked “pretty good” in practice this week, although “he really hasn’t been hit yet.”

* Coach Holtz praised Clemson’s team, which has won two straight heading into Saturday’s matchup. “They have excellent receivers and their quarterback is outstanding,” said Holtz. “Their receivers are 6-5 or so and can really cause some matchup problems.” When asked about the play of USC junior Taqiy Muhammad, who made his first start at safety last week, Coach Holtz said: “Taqiy played pretty well, but we measured him again last night and he’s still just 5-10.”

* Coach Holtz said the Gamecock receivers and quarterback will need to turn in good performances on Saturday. He said he anticipates Carolina will play well, and that Saturday’s game should be a great matchup.

* Bowl scouts scheduled to be at Saturday’s game include: EV1.net Houston Bowl, Music City Bowl, Mazda Gator Bowl and the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl.