Shula Talks Offensive Growth, Penalties, and Preparation Ahead of South Carolina’s Clash with Oklahoma
South Carolina offensive coordinator Mike Shula met with the media this week to break down the Gamecocks’ offensive performance and preview the upcoming Week 8 showdown against Oklahoma. Kickoff is set for 12:45 p.m. on the SEC Network.
Here’s everything Shula had to say:
On the Frustration of Penalties Stalling Drives
“Yeah, it’s hard, and that’s probably been our biggest negative on offense. We’ve been able to move the ball, but penalties — pre-snap or otherwise — have set us back,” Shula admitted. “You just have to keep coaching and finding ways to get back on track, to get to third-and-manageable, or design a play that gets you out of trouble. Especially when it happens in field-goal range, you’ve got to balance trying to get a first down with making sure you at least come away with points.”
Despite the challenges, Shula emphasized staying focused on improvement:
“You’ve got to eliminate those mistakes and build on the good. We’re doing a lot of good things offensively — we just have to stay out of those negative-yardage situations.”
On the 4th-and-4 Call Against LSU
“I’m not going to get into specifics on that. We called a play we thought would work in that situation. They’ve got good players, too. Unfortunately, we came up short there.”
Adjusting During Games
Shula explained that in-game adjustments are constant.
“You’re always adjusting as a play-caller. We don’t script the first 15 plays, but we go in with things we believe will work. You have to be flexible and willing to change based on what the defense gives you.”
On Coaching Staff Changes and Pressure
When asked about coaches being let go during the season, Shula said the emotions run deep.
“It’s heartbreaking, and we all have to take ownership. But the pressure doesn’t change. Every week, you have to prepare like it’s the only game that matters,” he said.
Shula credited the team’s resilience:
“Our players are frustrated because we haven’t won, but they still practice hard and believe. You can’t be satisfied, but you’ve got to know we’re not far off.”
Running Back Rotation
“We’ve got several guys who can play. Matt Fuller’s doing a great job, and Rahsul Faison is playing really well too,” Shula noted. “It’s a good problem to have. You go in with an idea, but you can’t predetermine it. Coach Marquel Blackwell does a great job rotating them.”
LaNorris Sellers’ Decision-Making Under Pressure
Shula praised the young quarterback’s growth:
“LaNorris has great instincts and mobility, and he’s learning how to balance extending plays with making smart decisions,” he said. “It’s easy to critique on film, but in real time, those are split-second choices.”
He continued, “We just need to keep improving our passing rhythm, protection, and decision-making.”
Midseason Reflections
Asked to assess his own performance as offensive coordinator, Shula said:
“Our goal is to score on every drive and win every game. When we fall short, we look at the why. Consistency is key — you can’t overreact or lose your identity. We’re constantly fine-tuning our schemes and personnel.”
Offensive Line Struggles and Adjustments
Shula acknowledged the offensive line’s issues but stressed teamwork.
“Sometimes it’s technique, communication, or timing. It’s not just on the players — it’s on all of us. You can’t panic or make drastic changes. We’re that close to turning it.”
On Working with Shawn Elliott
“Shawn’s been a big presence in our run game since he’s been here. He brings energy, toughness, and intelligence,” Shula said. “We’re learning from each other, and his expanded role only strengthens our collaboration.”
Chemistry Between the Offensive Line and Quarterback
Shula called chemistry “vital.”
“Communication creates chemistry, and that comes from time spent together,” he explained. “Ideally, you’d have the same five linemen every week, but that’s rare. Our guys have handled the shuffling well, and that builds trust.”
Final Thoughts on Elliott
“He’s a smart, tough coach with great energy and a clear vision. He knows how to simplify things and make players better,” Shula said in closing.
South Carolina will look to clean up penalties, build chemistry, and execute with more consistency as they face a tough Oklahoma team on Saturday.
