COLUMBIA, S.C. — The No. 11 South Carolina Gamecocks are set to kick off their Southeastern Conference schedule tonight, hosting the Vanderbilt Commodores at Williams-Brice Stadium. The Gamecocks are looking to start the season 3-0 for the first time since 2012, a feat that would continue an impressive winning streak dating back to last season.
South Carolina enters the game following a 38-10 victory over in-state rival South Carolina State, a contest that was defined by big plays on special teams and defense. Following a 2:19 weather delay, sophomore Vicari Swain electrified the crowd with two punt return touchdowns of 65 and 42 yards. Linebacker Jaron Willis added to the non-offensive scoring with a 46-yard fumble return for a touchdown.
The Gamecocks’ offense was held in check for much of the game against the Bulldogs, but quarterback LaNorris Sellers connected with Vandrevius Jacobs on a 35-yard touchdown pass. The defense, meanwhile, continued its strong start, holding South Carolina State to just 270 total yards.
In their season opener, the Gamecocks secured a hard-fought 24-11 win over Virginia Tech, with Swain and linebacker Fred Johnson earning SEC Player of the Week honors. Swain’s 80-yard punt return touchdown against the Hokies marks his third in just two games, tying the school’s single-season record.
South Carolina has dominated the series against Vanderbilt, winning 16 consecutive games and holding a commanding 30-4 all-time record. The Gamecocks are looking to extend their overall winning streak to eight games.
The game is scheduled to be televised on the SEC Network at 7:45 p.m. ET.
