Fuller’s Big Play, Then Silence — Beamer Breaks Down the Decision
In the Gamecocks’ 20–10 loss at LSU, Matt Fuller lit up the field with a 72-yard touchdown in the first quarter — yet he didn’t touch the ball again until the second half. That decision raised eyebrows among fans and analysts, and after the game, head coach Shane Beamer addressed exactly why Fuller had such a gap between carries. (On3)
“He needed to be back out there. I told the coaches at halftime, ‘Give the freakin’ ball to Matt Fuller in the second half, and let’s get him back in the game,’” Beamer said. (On3)
In his remarks, Beamer acknowledged that the coaching staff did intend to distribute the ball more to Fuller after his explosive run. However, a combination of offensive rotation, performance by other backs, and game timing played into the decision to hold him out for a stretch. (On3)
“Part of that, too, was keeping the rotation,” Beamer said. “’Sul’ [Rahsul Faison] ran the ball really well tonight — 13 times for 72 yards — and then Oscar was in there on that drive to finish the first half when it was two minutes.” (On3)
Beamer also noted that Fuller is “a load,” referencing his physical traits and potential to dominate. The coach indicated that once Fuller got back into the game in the second half, he was able to get things going again. (On3)
“Matt’s a load, and we got him back rolling in the second half,” Beamer said, defending the decision to bring him back when they did. (On3)
He admitted he could not recall the exact number of drives Fuller was off the field after his touchdown but cited one drive where Oscar Adaway was used instead, likely for extra protection. (247Sports)
Context and Takeaways
- Offensive balance and rotation: Beamer explained that Fuller’s absence was not simply oversight — it was also due to managing a rotation among multiple backs and giving other players opportunities, especially given that Rahsul Faison had a strong game with 13 carries for 72 yards. (247Sports)
- In-game circumstances: Beamer referenced game flow and timing — drives, substitutions, and protecting personnel — as contributing factors to when Fuller was reinserted. (On3)
- Desire to get Fuller more involved: Beamer emphasized that the coaches recognized Fuller deserved more touches and communicated to get him back in. (On3)
- Fan frustration: Many observers questioned why a back who proved explosive early was sidelined for much of the half. The coach’s explanation aims to clarify the philosophy behind the decision rather than dismiss the criticism.
If you like, I can also pull together a side-by-side comparison: how Fuller was used in this game vs. prior games, or how this decision aligns with Beamer’s usage of backs throughout the season. Want me to do that next?
