Aug. 26, 2015

The South Carolina Gamecocks were back on the practice fields Wednesday afternoon as they continued their preseason camp. Many of the younger players were dressed in black jerseys as the scout team to help the first- and second-team units prepare for North Carolina.

“I thought we had a very average practice today,” said head coach Steve Spurrier following the workout. “Nothing too outstanding. Guys weren’t moving around as well as we had hoped. We’ve got another one tomorrow and then we’re off Friday. Friday will be like a Sunday. Then hopefully we can pick up the pace and get ready for the Tar Heels.”

Now that Coach Spurrier has tabbed Connor Mitch as the starting quarterback, the question becomes who is next in line. “Perry (Orth) was taking a little bit more (of the snaps). (Michael Scarnecchia) got a few and we’ll have a group of plays for (Lorenzo Nunez). He’ll be ready to play some also,” said the Head Ball Coach.

Coach Spurrier said he is not trying to play up the underdog role that has been put on the Gamecocks this season. “We’re just trying to get our guys to play as good as they can play. That’s the only thing I know how to do. Hopefully, we’re not as overconfident as maybe we were last year. We’re not overconfident, I can say that for sure. Hopefully, we’ll be anxious to show the country that we’re a pretty good team. We have to wait to find out if we are a pretty good team,” said Coach Spurrier.

Those who did not participate on Wednesday included defensive back Shannon James (wrist), safety Antoine Wilder (right knee sprain), tight end Connor Redmond (back), kicker Joseph Charlton (back) and quarterback Gage Pucci (knee).

The Gamecocks will return to the practice fields on Thursday afternoon at 4 p.m. The season opener is set for Thursday September 3, in Charlotte against the Tar Heels. The 6 p.m. ET contest will be televised nationally on ESPN with Joe Tessitore handling the play-by-play and Jesse Palmer and David Pollack providing the analysis. Kaylee Hartung will be the sideline reporter.