Breaking news:Five star OL Kodi Greene,decommit from Oregon Flip to South Carolina Gamecocks Today over Alabama and Auburn welcome see More…

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Breaking news:Five star OL Kodi Greene,decommit from Oregon Flip to South Carolina Gamecocks Today over Alabama and Auburn welcome see More…

Gamecock football EDGEs Desmond Umeozulu and Dylan Stewart talk during the spring

 

 

Gamecock football EDGEs Desmond Umeozulu and Dylan Stewart talk during the spring game in 2024 (Photo: CJ Driggers | GamecockCentral.com)

In just over a week, South Carolina football coach Shane Beamer will lead his team out of the tunnel for one last time in 2024. The Gamecocks will match up with the Illinois Fighting Illini in Orlando in the Citrus Bowl.

 

Beamer and his players have repeatedly talked about the importance of earning a 10th win this season. South Carolina has only reached double-digit victories four other times in program history.

 

However, bowl games present unique opportunities in modern football. Thanks to the transfer portal and opt-outs, the personnel for the game will look a little different. The Gamecocks will be without All-American pass rusher Kyle Kennard who has already begun preparing for the NFL Draft. Running back Rocket Sanders has not officially made the same call but, similarly, has declared for the draft. 13 scholarship players also have left the team via the transfer portal.

 

Bowl games always give teams a chance to try out some new personnel looks. Those personnel changes only increase the likelihood that the Gamecocks will play some new faces.

 

As things stand today, USC is about a 10-point favorite in the game. If things get out of hand (a possibility as South Carolina won six contests by at least 21 points, and Illinois lost both of its games against top-15 opponents by multiple scores), the opportunity to play some younger or less-experienced players will be even greater.

 

So, which Gamecocks could use the Citrus Bowl to springboard themselves into a bigger role in 2025?

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South Carolina Stars Joyce Edwards and Raven Johnson Earn Spots on Prestigious National Award Lists The success of the South Carolina Gamecocks women’s basketball program this season continues to gain national recognition, as standout players Joyce Edwards and Raven Johnson have both been named to major national award watch lists. The recognition highlights not only their individual excellence but also the continued dominance of the Gamecocks under legendary head coach Dawn Staley. For South Carolina, having multiple players recognized nationally reflects the program’s depth, talent, and winning culture. Throughout the season, both Edwards and Johnson have played key roles in keeping the Gamecocks among the top teams in the country. Joyce Edwards Emerging as a National Star Freshman forward Joyce Edwards has quickly become one of the most exciting young players in college basketball. Her inclusion on a national award watch list confirms what many fans and analysts have already noticed — Edwards is a rising star with a very bright future. Edwards has impressed with her versatility, scoring ability, and energy on both ends of the court. Despite being early in her college career, she has shown remarkable maturity in big games. Whether attacking the basket, finishing through contact, or contributing defensively, Edwards has consistently delivered impactful performances. Her development has been a major boost for South Carolina, providing the team with another dynamic offensive weapon. Under the guidance of Coach Dawn Staley, Edwards continues to grow each game, and national recognition is only reinforcing her growing reputation. Raven Johnson’s Leadership and Defense Recognized While Edwards represents the future of the program, veteran guard Raven Johnson continues to serve as one of the team’s emotional leaders. Johnson’s selection to a national award list reflects her impact as a playmaker, defender, and floor general. Johnson has been known for her defensive intensity, court vision, and ability to control the pace of the game. She plays a crucial role in South Carolina’s system, often guarding the opponent’s best perimeter player while also orchestrating the offense. Her leadership has been especially valuable in high-pressure moments. Teammates rely on her calm presence and basketball IQ, making her one of the most respected guards in the nation. Recognition of South Carolina’s Elite Program The national recognition for Edwards and Johnson further reinforces the reputation of South Carolina as one of the premier programs in women’s college basketball. Coach Dawn Staley has built a powerhouse that consistently produces elite players capable of competing for major awards. The Gamecocks have become known for developing talent that thrives both individually and within the team structure. Players are expected to defend, share the ball, and compete with relentless energy — qualities that Edwards and Johnson both display every time they step on the court. Looking Ahead As the season continues and the postseason approaches, both Joyce Edwards and Raven Johnson will remain central to South Carolina’s championship aspirations. Individual awards are impressive honors, but for the Gamecocks, the ultimate goal remains team success. If Edwards continues her rapid rise and Johnson maintains her steady leadership, South Carolina will remain one of the most dangerous teams in the country. And with national attention growing, the spotlight on these two Gamecocks stars will only get brighter. For South Carolina fans, the message is clear: the present is strong, and the future looks even brighter see more..