South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer didn’t hold back when addressing national media coverage surrounding the Gamecocks’ offensive coordinator search, speaking candidly after the program officially hired TCU offensive coordinator Kendal Briles for the same role in Columbia.
While excitement is building within the program about what Briles could bring to the offense, Beamer used Friday’s availability to air frustrations over what he described as inaccurate reporting during the search process.
“I appreciate you guys, the media,” Beamer said. “I appreciate you guys in here that try and get accurate information. Because, unfortunately, there is a lot of people, I think, maybe in the national media, that just post stuff and tweet stuff that’s not accurate, and it, unfortunately, affects searches like this. So, when there’s a report that comes out on Friday afternoon that we’re finalizing a deal with someone? That’s not accurate.”
Beamer noted that at least one national reporter took the time to verify information before publishing — something he said he greatly valued — while others did not.
“I appreciate someone in the national media that called me and asked beforehand is this accurate, and I say no,” Beamer continued. “And then, unfortunately, there was another media outlet, not in this room, but, fifteen minutes later, reports something is being finalized.”
Although Beamer didn’t single out specific outlets, his comments clearly referenced the timing of reports tied to Briles’ eventual hiring. He added that some of the speculation surfaced before meaningful conversations had even taken place.
“At that point, you know, I hadn’t even met with Kendal at that point,” Beamer said. “Monday night, a report came out that we were finalizing or working to finalize something, and that was somewhat accurate. But then, ten minutes later, another national outlet reports that someone at this table has been hired, and it’s not accurate.”
Beamer closed his remarks by reiterating his appreciation for reporters who prioritize accuracy over speed.
“So, I appreciate you guys that try and do things the right way, and actually try and get sources and accurate information before you just tweet crap that doesn’t have any accountability that affects searches,” Beamer said. “So, appreciate you guys and how you try and do things…It just bothers me. No accountability anymore with some people in the media. It’s all about who’s first and not who’s right.”
Despite the rocky reporting cycle, South Carolina is optimistic about what Briles will bring to the offense starting in 2026, particularly with quarterback LaNorris Sellers leading the unit.
Since 2015, Briles has held offensive coordinator roles at Baylor, FAU, Houston, Florida State, Arkansas, and TCU. Along the way, he’s worked with quarterbacks such as Jarrett Stidham, Clayton Tune, Feleipe Franks, KJ Jefferson, Josh Hoover, and Chandler Morris. Sellers, once projected as a potential top pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, now appears more likely to make the jump to the professional ranks in 2027.
