Sept. 7, 2009

University of South Carolina defensive end Devin Taylor has been selected as the Southeastern Conference’s Defensive Lineman of the Week for his performance in the Gamecocks’ 7-3 win over North Carolina State, it was announced today.

Taylor, a 6-7, 232-pound redshirt freshman from Beaufort, S.C., made the start in his first collegiate game. On his first snap from scrimmage, Taylor forced a fumble that was recovered by South Carolina and led to the game’s only touchdown. He finished the game with six tackles including a game-high three for losses, including a sack. He also blocked a punt and forced a second fumble. The Gamecocks held the Wolfpack to just 133 yards of offense including 59 on the ground.

Taylor and the Gamecocks (1-0) will open conference action on Saturday when they travel to Athens to face the Georgia Bulldogs (0-1). The game will be televised nationally on ESPN2 beginning at 7 p.m. ET.