South Carolina’s Postgame Drama: Dylan Stewart Walks Away, Fans Speculate on Program’s Stability
South Carolina’s 29-20 loss to Missouri on Saturday night didn’t just extend its SEC skid—it also fueled new concerns about the team’s culture and direction. The spotlight shifted quickly from the scoreboard to a tense moment after the final whistle.
Beamer and Stewart’s Postgame Moment
As Jordan Kaye reported on social media, head coach Shane Beamer had to chase down star defender Dylan Stewart as he headed toward the tunnel.
“Shane Beamer just ran after Dylan Stewart, who was already walking in the tunnel to the locker room. Beamer tapped him on the back and told him to join the team for the alma mater,” Kaye posted.
The incident drew attention because it’s rare for a coach to physically call back one of his top players for a team tradition. Stewart, one of the SEC’s premier pass rushers, has already made waves with his on-field performance. Now, his body language is raising questions.
Why Fans Are Concerned
Stewart isn’t just another name on the roster. In December 2024, he signed a groundbreaking NIL deal with The Garnet Trust worth between $1–1.5 million, turning down larger offers to remain in Columbia. Through four games this season, he’s piled up 17 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, two sacks, and leads SEC defenders with a 9.2% pressure rate.
But the Gamecocks’ 2-2 start, including 0-2 in SEC play, has tested patience. The offense ranks 113th nationally in efficiency, and the defense surrendered over 200 rushing yards to Missouri. Against that backdrop, Stewart walking away early struck fans as another troubling sign.
Fan Speculation Erupts
Gamecock fans immediately took to social media, with many interpreting Stewart’s actions as a red flag about the state of the program.
- “transfer portal incoming” — @SchaefferVol
- “@Dylan1Stewart_ go ahead enter the portal 👑 and come to Knoxville and be part of something special in 2026 with the Great Rodney Garner where your talents will be utilized and appreciated.” — @MarineVol1371
- “Beamer is losing the locker room.” — @Gamecock_Scott
Some criticism went beyond Stewart, directly targeting Beamer’s leadership.
- “Beamer has hosed a lot of players by allowing garbage coaches to remain on staff. They’re not developing, not disciplined.” — @But0why0Bitcoin
- “Beamer chose to pay him, and now expects better? Beamer has zero control of this team.” — @PiggybkRide
What’s Next
For Stewart, the scrutiny is unlikely to fade. The sophomore edge rusher still has two years of eligibility and has openly discussed chasing College Football Playoff dreams. Whether he sees that future in Columbia is uncertain.
South Carolina, meanwhile, faces Kentucky at home on September 27. A win could calm tensions and slow the transfer chatter. Another stumble might only intensify doubts about Beamer’s control of the locker room.
