Aug. 31, 2011

The South Carolina Gamecock football team worked out at the Bluff Road “Proving Grounds” on the final day in August, just three days away from the season opener, set for Saturday, Sept. 3 in Charlotte against the East Carolina Pirates.

Tickets remain on sale for the opener. Gamecock fans may purchase tickets to the game, which will be held at Bank of America Stadium, through TicketMaster.com for $60 each.

Assistant coach Jay Graham feels comfortable with where his running backs are heading into the opener. “It’s still early, the first game,” said Graham. “You don’t know exactly what to expect. They’ve made some changes on their defense and stuff, but I think our guys are ready. We talk about breaking tackles, ball security, those things are important. Knowing what you’re supposed to be doing on every single play. It’s a faster tempo. We go fast in practice, but it’s nothing compared to the game tempo. East Carolina has a good team. Last year was last year. This is a different year. We’re just trying to get better every week.”

“I feel really good,” said sophomore running back Marcus Lattimore. “Everybody is looking good. The offensive line is looking good. The defense is looking good. Everybody knows the offense well and knows their assignments pretty well so we’re right where we need to be. I get nervous before every game,” admitted Lattimore. “I think once I get hit I’ll be fine.”

The Gamecocks will return to the practice fields on Thursday afternoon. In addition, a pep rally will be held in the Vista, outside the Wild Wings Café on Thursday evening, leading to the “Carolina Calls” radio show with Steve Spurrier.