Live Feed: Breaking Down South Carolina’s Stellar Defense and What’s Next for 2025
Columbia, SC – This past season, South Carolina’s defense was nothing short of electrifying, delivering jaw-dropping performances that left opposing offenses scrambling. Let’s revisit some unforgettable moments and dive into the burning questions for 2025.
Reliving the Kentucky Game
Remember Week 2 against Kentucky? It was a masterclass in defensive dominance. Wildcats QB Brock Vandagriff was held to a paltry 30 yards passing and endured five sacks in a blowout. Vandagriff has since retired from football, and while the connection to Kyle Kennard and Dylan Stewart’s relentless pressure is speculative, it’s hard to ignore their impact.
Oklahoma’s Nightmare
Fast forward to the demolition of Oklahoma, a performance for the ages. Nine sacks by nine different players—a feat rarely seen in college football.
The Backbone of the Defense
The magic lay in South Carolina’s veteran-heavy roster. Aside from Dylan Stewart, every starter boasted significant college experience. However, as we look ahead to 2025, the Gamecocks face a major rebuild, losing seven starters, including:
- Kyle Kennard
- Tonka Hemingway
- TJ Sanders
- Demetrius Knight
- Debo Williams
- O’Donnell Fortune
- Nick Emmanwori
The Big Questions for 2025
1. Who Replaces Kyle Kennard Opposite Dylan Stewart?
Replacing Kennard, who tallied 11.5 sacks and 15.5 TFLs, is no easy task. However, Bryan Thomas Jr. is a promising candidate after starting in the Citrus Bowl and finishing with 4.5 sacks on the season. Other options include:
- Desmond Umeozulu: Talented but unproven.
- Missouri transfer Jaylen Brown: A 6’6″, 265-pound sophomore with potential, though possibly too raw for a starting role.
- A potential portal addition.
Whoever it is, they’ll benefit from Stewart drawing extra attention from opposing offenses.
2. What Happens to the Linebacker Room?
The key lies in Bam Martin-Scott’s eligibility appeal. If the sixth-year senior returns, he’ll likely pair with Fred Johnson, a sophomore who impressed coaches and teammates during his freshman year. If Martin-Scott doesn’t get another year, Shawn Murphy, a recent Florida State transfer, or another portal addition could step in.
3. Can Anyone Replicate Nick Emmanwori?
Nick Emmanwori’s departure leaves a massive hole in the secondary. Known for his adaptability under Clayton White’s system, Emmanwori’s four interceptions this season were a testament to his instincts. Possible replacements include:
- Peyton Williams, who filled in during the Citrus Bowl.
- A transfer yet to be signed.
- Moving Jalon Kilgore from nickel corner to free safety.
Without a player of Emmanwori’s caliber, White’s defense might look significantly different.
4. Does Monkell Goodwine Become the Top D-Tackle?
With TJ Sanders, Tonka Hemingway, Alex Huntley, and Deandre Jules gone, Monkell Goodwine could become the cornerstone of the defensive line. The Alabama transfer had a solid 2024, recording 15 tackles and taking the fourth-most snaps among defensive tackles. The coaches trust him, and his experience could make him a key figure in 2025.
Additionally, watch out for Gabriel Brownlow-Dindy, a Texas A&M transfer and former five-star prospect. If he can deliver on his potential, the Gamecocks’ trenches might not miss a beat.
Looking Ahead
South Carolina’s defense was a joy to watch this season, but the rebuild is on. With veterans gone, 2025 poses big challenges—and opportunities—for the next generation of Gamecocks. Stay tuned for how this unfolds in the months ahead!
