South Carolina Gamecocks: The Missteps That Derailed a Promising 2024 Season
The South Carolina Gamecocks were knocking on the door of a College Football Playoff run in 2024. A strong regular-season performance of 9-3 had them in the conversation for a playoff berth. Unfortunately, their season ended with a tough bowl game loss to Illinois, finishing at 9-4. While there were plenty of bright spots, the Gamecocks also experienced some glaring issues that held them back. Here’s a breakdown of the “Bad” moments from their 2024 campaign.
Turnovers Prove Costly
Turnovers were the Achilles’ heel for the Gamecocks in 2024. Despite moments of promise, South Carolina’s 21 turnovers—ranking 10th most in the country—created a razor-thin margin for error. Every regular-season loss was marred by giveaways, with the worst coming in the four-turnover disaster against Alabama. This included a critical botched snap by quarterback LaNorris Sellers that led directly to Alabama’s game-winning touchdown. For South Carolina to reach the next level, ball security must be a priority.
A Night to Forget vs. Ole Miss
Every team has an off day, but South Carolina’s performance against Ole Miss on October 5th was a complete breakdown. The 27-3 defeat was baffling on paper—the Gamecocks controlled time of possession and secured more first downs—but those stats didn’t translate to the scoreboard. Ole Miss, led by a dominant defensive front featuring Walter Nolen, stifled South Carolina’s offensive line and forced two turnovers. The Gamecocks couldn’t find any rhythm, and the Rebels outplayed them in every facet. If South Carolina aspires to compete in the SEC gauntlet, they must eliminate games where they’re thoroughly outmatched.
Controversy and Collapse Against LSU
The Gamecocks’ showdown with LSU could be labeled the infamous “one that got away.” South Carolina started strong but lost momentum after quarterback LaNorris Sellers was injured on a sack late in the first half. Without Sellers, backup QB Robbie Ashford struggled to spark the offense. One bright moment came from a 66-yard touchdown by Rocket Sanders, but the offense otherwise faltered.
The defining moment came in the fourth quarter when defensive back Nick Emmanwori appeared to seal the game with a dramatic pick-six. The touchdown would’ve extended the lead to 40-29 with under six minutes remaining, but a controversial roughing the passer flag on Kyle Kennard wiped out the score. Kennard had pushed LSU QB Garrett Nussmeier as Emmanwori returned the interception.
The penalty swung the momentum completely. South Carolina failed to score again, and LSU escaped with a 36-33 victory after kicker Alex Herrera missed a game-tying field goal in the final seconds. Head coach Shane Beamer and the Gamecock faithful were left wondering what could’ve been if not for the questionable call.
What’s Next for South Carolina?
Despite the setbacks, the Gamecocks showed glimpses of being a playoff-caliber team. Cleaning up turnovers, avoiding flat performances, and overcoming adversity in key moments will be critical as they continue to navigate the tough SEC landscape.
If South Carolina can address these issues, 2025 could be the year they break through. Stay tuned, Gamecocks fans—this team’s story is far from over.
Follow Fisher Brewer on Twitter: @USCT
