South Carolina will kick off the 2025 season in style with a neutral-site matchup against Virginia Tech at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta on Sunday, August 31. The game won’t just feature the Gamecocks and Hokies on the field — it will also spotlight one of South Carolina’s all-time greats.
According to a release from the Aflac Kickoff Game, legendary running back George Rogers will serve as South Carolina’s honorary captain, while Virginia Tech will be represented by former linebacker Divine Deablo.
Rogers’ name is etched deep in Gamecock history. In 1980, he became the program’s only Heisman Trophy winner, leading the nation with 1,894 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns. His efforts powered South Carolina to an 8-4 record, which at the time matched the program’s best season ever.
Of course, Rogers’ greatness wasn’t limited to just one year. Known affectionately as “Big George,” he posted three 1,000-yard seasons, recorded the two highest single-season rushing totals in USC history, and hit the 100-yard rushing mark in 27 career games — including each of his final 22 appearances in garnet and black.
His excellence carried over to the professional ranks. Selected No. 1 overall in the 1981 NFL Draft, Rogers made an immediate impact, earning Rookie of the Year and All-Pro honors. He later led the NFL in both rushing yards and rushing touchdowns during his career before retiring in 1988.
Rogers has since been enshrined in the USC Athletics Hall of Fame, the South Carolina Football Hall of Fame, and honored as an SEC Legend. He was also named to multiple All-American teams as both a junior and senior.
Having Rogers back on the sidelines as an honorary captain adds an extra layer of excitement for head coach Shane Beamer and his 2025 squad, who are aiming high this fall. The Gamecocks open the season with College Football Playoff aspirations, and that journey begins in Atlanta.
Kickoff against the Hokies is set for 3:00 p.m. ET, with national coverage on ESPN and streaming available through the ESPN app.
