South Carolina Gamecocks football
Encyclopedia
The South Carolina Gamecocks
football team represents the University of South Carolina
in NCAA Division I college football
. The Gamecocks have been a member of the Southeastern Conference
since 1992. Steve Spurrier
is the current head coach, and the team plays its home games at Williams-Brice Stadium
, also known as "The Cockpit". Currently, it is the 20th largest stadium in college football.
South Carolina's SEC tenure has been highlighted by an SEC East title in 2010, Final Top-25 rankings in 2000, 2001, and 2010 (AP #19, #13, and #22), and two wins over Top-5 SEC opponents (#4 Ole Miss
in 2009 and #1 Alabama in 2010).
From 1953 through 1970, the Gamecocks played in the Atlantic Coast Conference
, winning the 1969 ACC
championship and finishing #15 in the 1958 final AP poll. From 1971 through 1991, they competed as a major independent, producing 1980 Heisman Trophy
winner George Rogers
, six bowl appearances, and Final Top-25 rankings in 1984 and 1987 (AP #11 and #15).
The Gamecocks have produced a National Coach of the Year in Joe Morrison
, three SEC coaches of the year in Lou Holtz
(2000) and Steve Spurrier
(2005, 2010), and one ACC coach of the year in Paul Dietzel
(1969). They also have two members of the College Football Hall of Fame
in Rogers and Holtz. Carolina has 16 bowl appearances all-time, including four Gator Bowl
and three Outback Bowl
berths.
on Christmas Eve
in Charleston
. The football team was not sanctioned by the University and had to pay its own train fare as well as buy its own uniforms. They were nicknamed the "College Boys" by The News and Courier
and their supporters wore garnet and black. The team lost the game because of their inexperience and lack of training.
USC won its first game during the third season of the sport on November 2, 1895 against Columbia AA. The football team got its first head coach, W.H. "Dixie" Whaley, the following year, and the 1896 season also saw the inaugural game against archrival Clemson
on November 12, which Carolina won 12–6. From 1902-03, coach C. R. Williams led the Gamecocks to an impressive 14-3 record, which included the program's first 8-win season. The Board of Trustees banned participation in football for the 1906 season after the faculty complained about the coarseness of chants yelled by the students at football games. However, the board was so harassed by petitions from the students and alumni that it voted to allow the resumption of the sport in 1907. A hastily assembled football team, coached by Board of Trustees member Douglas McKay, competed in an abbreviated season and won all three games it played.
From 1928-1934, coach Billy Laval
led the Gamecocks to seven consecutive winning seasons and a 39-26-6 overall record, which included a perfect 3-0 Southern Conference
campaign in 1933. Under coach Rex Enright
, the Gamecocks produced another undefeated Southern Conference season, going 4-0-1 in 1941. Enright gave up coaching duties in 1955 due to health reasons, but remained as Athletic Director
. He retired with the distinction of being both the winningest and losingest coach in school history (64-69-7). Warren Giese
was hired as head coach in 1956, and he led the Gamecocks to a 28-21-1 overall record in his 5-year tenure. The Giese era included two 7-3 campaigns (1956 and 1958), an 18-15-1 ACC record, and a 27-21 victory over Darrell Royal's
1957 Texas squad in Austin
. Marvin Bass
was named head coach in 1961, and his 5-year tenure produced a 17-29-4 overall record.
arrived in Columbia prior to the 1966 season, having previously coached at LSU
and Army
. In 1969, he led the Gamecocks to an ACC championship and an appearance in the Peach Bowl. As a result, Dietzel was named ACC Coach of the Year that season. Soon after, South Carolina left the ACC and became an Independent program prior to the 1971 season. Dietzel finished his USC tenure with a 42-53-1 overall record (18-10-1 ACC). In addition to the 1969 ACC title, Dietzel's legacies at Carolina include his improvement of athletic facilities and his penning of a new fight song, which is still used to this day (The Fighting Gamecocks Lead the Way
).
took over as coach in 1975, and under his leadership the program achieved a measure of national prominence. Carlen led the Gamecocks to three bowl games, coached 1980 Heisman Trophy
winner George Rogers
, and produced a 45-36-1 record during his tenure. The Carlen Era included consecutive 8-4 finishes (1979–1980) and only one losing season in seven years. In addition, the 1980 Gamecocks defeated a heavily favored Michigan
squad coached by the legendary Bo Schembechler
. The 17-14 victory in Ann Arbor
, which made Rogers a household name, was one of the biggest wins in both the Carlen Era and the program's history.
was hired in 1983 following a one-year stint by Richard Bell. After a 5-6 mark in his first year, the "Man in Black" led South Carolina to a 10-2 record, #11 final AP Poll
ranking, and a Gator Bowl
appearance in 1984. The 1984 season included victories over Georgia, Pittsburgh
, Notre Dame, Florida State
, and Clemson
. In 1987, the Gamecocks posted an 8-4 record, #15 Final AP Poll
ranking, and another Gator Bowl trip. The 1987 Gamecocks were led by the "Black Death" defense, which held seven opponents to 10 or fewer points and yielded just 141 points in 12 games played. Morrison coached his last game in the 1988 Liberty Bowl
, as he died on February 5, 1989 at the age of 51. He finished his USC tenure with a 39-28-2 overall record, three bowl games, and three seasons with 8 or more wins. Due to his on-field success and "Man in Black" image, Morrison remains a popular figure in Gamecock lore.
was hired as head coach in 1989 and coached the Gamecocks until the end of the 1993 season. He posted winning seasons in 1989 and 1990, but could not produce another winning campaign during his tenure. Woods has the distinction of being South Carolina's first head coach in SEC play, as the Gamecocks entered the conference in 1992. Brad Scott
took over as head coach in 1994 and led USC to a 7-5 record and a Carquest Bowl victory in his first season. The bowl win was the first post-season victory in the program's history. Scott was unable to capitalize on his early success, however, as USC won only six games during his final two seasons in Columbia.
was hired as South Carolina's head coach in 1999. He inherited a relatively young SEC program (joined in 1992) that posted only three winning seasons from 1990-1998. USC won just a single game the year before Holtz's arrival and, subsequently, went 0-11 in his inaugural campaign. It didn't take long for Holtz to improve the Gamecocks' fortunes, however, as he engineered 8-4 and 9-3 records in the 2000 and 2001 seasons. In addition, South Carolina won consecutive Outback Bowl
s over Ohio State and produced the most successful two-year run in program history, going 17-7 overall and 10-6 in SEC play. The 2000 and 2001 campaigns also saw USC's return to the polls, as the Gamecocks turned in #19 and #13 rankings in the Final AP ballotings for those years. After consecutive 5-7 finishes in 2002 and 2003 (during which the team was ranked in the Top 25 during the season both years), Holtz ended his South Carolina tenure on a winning note with a 6-5 record in 2004. Holtz finished with a 33-37 overall record at South Carolina, but went 33-26 after his first season.
was hired in 2005 to replace the departing Holtz, and he led the Gamecocks to a 7-5 record and Independence Bowl
appearance in his first season. As a result, Spurrier was named the 2005 SEC Coach of the Year. The 2006 season saw continued success under Spurrier, as the Gamecocks posted an 8-5 record and a victory over Houston
in the Liberty Bowl
. South Carolina posted consecutive 7-6 records in 2008 and 2009, returning to postseason play with appearances in the Outback Bowl
and PapaJohns.com Bowl. No other coach in the program's history has led the program to four bowl games as coach. In 2010, Spurrier scored another first with the first SEC Eastern Division Championship in school history.
On November 13, 2010, the Gamecocks defeated Florida 36-14, clinching the Eastern Division of the SEC. Prior to this contest, South Carolina had an all-time record of 0-12 at The Swamp. Freshman RB Marcus Lattimore rushed for 212 yards and 3 touchdowns in the game. Spurrier got his first win in Gainesville as a Gamecock, received a "Gatorade Bath" from his players, and became the first coach to win the SEC East with two different teams. Earlier in the season, the Gamecocks posted the first win over a #1 team in program history, with a 35-21 victory over top-ranked, defending national champion Alabama
.
, the Gamecocks won the ACC Championship by going undefeated in conference play. In its six ACC matchups, South Carolina outscored its opponents by a 130-61 margin. The squad posted a 7-4 overall record with a Peach Bowl appearance against West Virginia
to close the season (14-3 loss). Two years later, South Carolina left the ACC and competed as an Independent for two decades before joining the SEC in 1992.
, the Gamecocks won their first SEC Eastern Division Championship, going 5-3 in conference play. For the first time in school history, they defeated the #1 ranked team in the country (Alabama) and won at Florida in the division-clinching game. The season also included victories over division foes Georgia, Tennessee, and Vanderbilt as well as instate Atlantic Coast Conference rival Clemson.
George Rogers ("Big George"), who led the nation in rushing with 1,894 yards. For his efforts, the Downtown Athletic Club
named Rogers the winner of the 1980 Heisman Trophy
award. Rogers beat out an impressive group of players, including Georgia running back Herschel Walker
. Rogers also earned spots on eight All-American teams, all First-team honors. Behind the Rogers-led rushing attack, the Gamecocks went 8-4 overall and earned an appearance in the Gator Bowl. Rogers is also the recipient of the 1980 Chic Harley Award
, the 2004 Walter Camp Alumni of the Year
award, a Pro-Bowl selection, an SEC Football Legend
, a Super Bowl champion and an NFL Rookie of the Year.
.
In the 2011 season, South Carolina wore special uniforms against Auburn in support of the Wounded Warrior Project
.
South Carolina Gamecocks
The University of South Carolina's 19 varsity sports teams are known as the "Gamecocks". The unique moniker is held in honor of Thomas Sumter, a South Carolina war hero who was given the name "The Carolina Gamecock" during the American Revolution for his fierce fighting tactics, regardless of his...
football team represents the University of South Carolina
University of South Carolina
The University of South Carolina is a public, co-educational research university located in Columbia, South Carolina, United States, with 7 surrounding satellite campuses. Its historic campus covers over in downtown Columbia not far from the South Carolina State House...
in NCAA Division I college football
College football
College football refers to American football played by teams of student athletes fielded by American universities, colleges, and military academies, or Canadian football played by teams of student athletes fielded by Canadian universities...
. The Gamecocks have been a member of the Southeastern Conference
Southeastern Conference
The Southeastern Conference is an American college athletic conference that operates in the southeastern part of the United States. It is headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama...
since 1992. Steve Spurrier
Steve Spurrier
Stephen Orr Spurrier is an American college football coach and player. Spurrier is the current head coach of the University of South Carolina's Gamecocks football team. He is also a former professional player and coach...
is the current head coach, and the team plays its home games at Williams-Brice Stadium
Williams-Brice Stadium
Williams-Brice Stadium is the home football stadium for the South Carolina Gamecocks, the college football team representing the University of South Carolina in Columbia, South Carolina...
, also known as "The Cockpit". Currently, it is the 20th largest stadium in college football.
South Carolina's SEC tenure has been highlighted by an SEC East title in 2010, Final Top-25 rankings in 2000, 2001, and 2010 (AP #19, #13, and #22), and two wins over Top-5 SEC opponents (#4 Ole Miss
Ole Miss Rebels
University of Mississippi sports teams, originally known as the "Mississippi Flood" , were re-named the Rebels in 1936 and compete in the twelve-member Southeastern Conference of the NCAA's Division I. The school's colors are cardinal red and navy blue , purposely chosen to mirror the school...
in 2009 and #1 Alabama in 2010).
From 1953 through 1970, the Gamecocks played in the Atlantic Coast Conference
Atlantic Coast Conference
The Atlantic Coast Conference is a collegiate athletic league in the United States. Founded in 1953 in Greensboro, North Carolina, the ACC sanctions competition in twenty-five sports in Division I of the National Collegiate Athletic Association for its twelve member universities...
, winning the 1969 ACC
Atlantic Coast Conference
The Atlantic Coast Conference is a collegiate athletic league in the United States. Founded in 1953 in Greensboro, North Carolina, the ACC sanctions competition in twenty-five sports in Division I of the National Collegiate Athletic Association for its twelve member universities...
championship and finishing #15 in the 1958 final AP poll. From 1971 through 1991, they competed as a major independent, producing 1980 Heisman Trophy
Heisman Trophy
The Heisman Memorial Trophy Award , is awarded annually to the player deemed the most outstanding player in collegiate football. It was created in 1935 as the Downtown Athletic Club trophy and renamed in 1936 following the death of the Club's athletic director, John Heisman The Heisman Memorial...
winner George Rogers
George Rogers (American football)
George Washington Rogers is a former American football player who achieved distinction in both the college and professional ranks as a running back...
, six bowl appearances, and Final Top-25 rankings in 1984 and 1987 (AP #11 and #15).
The Gamecocks have produced a National Coach of the Year in Joe Morrison
Joe Morrison
Joseph R. Morrison was an American football player in the National Football League for the New York Giants and a coach best known as the head coach at the University of South Carolina.-Playing career:...
, three SEC coaches of the year in Lou Holtz
Lou Holtz
Louis Leo "Lou" Holtz is a retired American football coach, and active sportscaster, author, and motivational speaker in the United States...
(2000) and Steve Spurrier
Steve Spurrier
Stephen Orr Spurrier is an American college football coach and player. Spurrier is the current head coach of the University of South Carolina's Gamecocks football team. He is also a former professional player and coach...
(2005, 2010), and one ACC coach of the year in Paul Dietzel
Paul Dietzel
Paul Dietzel is a former American football player, coach, and college athletics administrator. He served as the head coach at Louisiana State University , the United States Military Academy , and the University of South Carolina , compiling a career record of 109–95–5...
(1969). They also have two members of the College Football Hall of Fame
College Football Hall of Fame
The College Football Hall of Fame is a hall of fame and museum devoted to college football. Located in South Bend, Indiana, it is connected to a convention center and situated in the city's renovated downtown district, two miles south of the University of Notre Dame campus. It is slated to move...
in Rogers and Holtz. Carolina has 16 bowl appearances all-time, including four Gator Bowl
Gator Bowl
The Gator Bowl is an annual college football bowl game played at EverBank Field in Jacksonville, Florida. Held continuously since 1946, it is the sixth oldest college bowl, as well as the first one ever televised nationally...
and three Outback Bowl
Outback Bowl
The Outback Bowl is an annual New Year's Day college football bowl game played at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. The event was originally called the Hall of Fame Bowl from 1986 to 1994 until being renamed in 1995 for its new title sponsor, Outback Steakhouse...
berths.
Early Days of Carolina Football
Carolina fielded its first football team in 1892 to play against FurmanFurman University
Furman University is a selective, private, coeducational, liberal arts college in Greenville, South Carolina, United States. Furman is one of the oldest, and more selective private institutions in South Carolina...
on Christmas Eve
Christmas Eve
Christmas Eve refers to the evening or entire day preceding Christmas Day, a widely celebrated festival commemorating the birth of Jesus of Nazareth that takes place on December 25...
in Charleston
Charleston, South Carolina
Charleston is the second largest city in the U.S. state of South Carolina. It was made the county seat of Charleston County in 1901 when Charleston County was founded. The city's original name was Charles Towne in 1670, and it moved to its present location from a location on the west bank of the...
. The football team was not sanctioned by the University and had to pay its own train fare as well as buy its own uniforms. They were nicknamed the "College Boys" by The News and Courier
The Post and Courier
Charleston's The Post and Courier is one of the oldest daily newspapers in the South and the eighth oldest newspaper still in publication in the United States. It is published in Charleston, South Carolina. It traces its ancestry to three newspapers, the Charleston Courier, founded in 1803, the...
and their supporters wore garnet and black. The team lost the game because of their inexperience and lack of training.
USC won its first game during the third season of the sport on November 2, 1895 against Columbia AA. The football team got its first head coach, W.H. "Dixie" Whaley, the following year, and the 1896 season also saw the inaugural game against archrival Clemson
Clemson Tigers football
The Clemson Tigers football team is an American football team from Clemson University in South Carolina. It competes in the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision and the Atlantic Division of the Atlantic Coast Conference...
on November 12, which Carolina won 12–6. From 1902-03, coach C. R. Williams led the Gamecocks to an impressive 14-3 record, which included the program's first 8-win season. The Board of Trustees banned participation in football for the 1906 season after the faculty complained about the coarseness of chants yelled by the students at football games. However, the board was so harassed by petitions from the students and alumni that it voted to allow the resumption of the sport in 1907. A hastily assembled football team, coached by Board of Trustees member Douglas McKay, competed in an abbreviated season and won all three games it played.
From 1928-1934, coach Billy Laval
Billy Laval
Around 1912, Laval was invited by Clemson coach Frank Dobson to watch their football game against Georgia Tech. The event piqued Laval's interest in the sport, and he began studying it in earnest....
led the Gamecocks to seven consecutive winning seasons and a 39-26-6 overall record, which included a perfect 3-0 Southern Conference
Southern Conference
The Southern Conference is a Division I college athletic conference affiliated with the National Collegiate Athletic Association . Southern Conference football teams compete in the Football Championship Subdivision . Member institutions are located in the states of Alabama, Georgia, North...
campaign in 1933. Under coach Rex Enright
Rex Enright
Rex Edward Enright was an American football and basketball player, coach, and college athletics administrator. He played college football and college basketball at the University of Notre Dame in the 1920s...
, the Gamecocks produced another undefeated Southern Conference season, going 4-0-1 in 1941. Enright gave up coaching duties in 1955 due to health reasons, but remained as Athletic Director
Athletic director
An athletic director is an administrator at many American colleges and universities, as well as in larger high schools and middle schools, who oversees the work of coaches and related staff involved in intercollegiate or interscholastic athletic programs...
. He retired with the distinction of being both the winningest and losingest coach in school history (64-69-7). Warren Giese
Warren Giese
Warren Giese is an American former South Carolina state legislator and college football coach. He served as the head football coach for the South Carolina Gamecocks for five years at the University of South Carolina....
was hired as head coach in 1956, and he led the Gamecocks to a 28-21-1 overall record in his 5-year tenure. The Giese era included two 7-3 campaigns (1956 and 1958), an 18-15-1 ACC record, and a 27-21 victory over Darrell Royal's
Darrell Royal
Darrell K Royal is a former American football player and coach. He served as the head coach at Mississippi State University , the University of Washington , and the University of Texas at Austin , compiling a career college football record of 184–60–5...
1957 Texas squad in Austin
Austin, Texas
Austin is the capital city of the U.S. state of :Texas and the seat of Travis County. Located in Central Texas on the eastern edge of the American Southwest, it is the fourth-largest city in Texas and the 14th most populous city in the United States. It was the third-fastest-growing large city in...
. Marvin Bass
Marvin Bass
Marvin Crosby Bass was the head coach of The College of William & Mary's football team in 1951 and 1952. He compiled an 11–8 overall record. He also coached the South Carolina Gamecocks football team for five seasons....
was named head coach in 1961, and his 5-year tenure produced a 17-29-4 overall record.
Paul Dietzel Era (1966-1974)
Paul DietzelPaul Dietzel
Paul Dietzel is a former American football player, coach, and college athletics administrator. He served as the head coach at Louisiana State University , the United States Military Academy , and the University of South Carolina , compiling a career record of 109–95–5...
arrived in Columbia prior to the 1966 season, having previously coached at LSU
LSU Tigers
The LSU Tigers are the athletic teams of Louisiana State University. They participate in the NCAA's Division I, in the Southeastern Conference. It fields teams in 14 varsity sports . Its official team nickname is the Fighting Tigers and the school mascot is Mike the Tiger...
and Army
Army Black Knights
Army Black Knights is the name of the athletics teams of the United States Military Academy. They participate in NCAA Division I-A as a non-football member of the Patriot League, a Division I Football Bowl Subdivision independent school, and a member of Atlantic Hockey, the Collegiate Sprint...
. In 1969, he led the Gamecocks to an ACC championship and an appearance in the Peach Bowl. As a result, Dietzel was named ACC Coach of the Year that season. Soon after, South Carolina left the ACC and became an Independent program prior to the 1971 season. Dietzel finished his USC tenure with a 42-53-1 overall record (18-10-1 ACC). In addition to the 1969 ACC title, Dietzel's legacies at Carolina include his improvement of athletic facilities and his penning of a new fight song, which is still used to this day (The Fighting Gamecocks Lead the Way
The Fighting Gamecocks Lead the Way
"The Fighting Gamecocks Lead the Way" is the fight song of the University of South Carolina. It was adapted from the musical number "Step to the Rear" in the Broadway show How Now, Dow Jones and the lyrics were written by Gamecocks football coach Paul Dietzel.-History:USC band director James...
).
Jim Carlen Era (1975-1981)
Jim CarlenJim Carlen
-External links:...
took over as coach in 1975, and under his leadership the program achieved a measure of national prominence. Carlen led the Gamecocks to three bowl games, coached 1980 Heisman Trophy
Heisman Trophy
The Heisman Memorial Trophy Award , is awarded annually to the player deemed the most outstanding player in collegiate football. It was created in 1935 as the Downtown Athletic Club trophy and renamed in 1936 following the death of the Club's athletic director, John Heisman The Heisman Memorial...
winner George Rogers
George Rogers (American football)
George Washington Rogers is a former American football player who achieved distinction in both the college and professional ranks as a running back...
, and produced a 45-36-1 record during his tenure. The Carlen Era included consecutive 8-4 finishes (1979–1980) and only one losing season in seven years. In addition, the 1980 Gamecocks defeated a heavily favored Michigan
Michigan Wolverines football
The Michigan Wolverines football program represents the University of Michigan in college football at the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision level. Michigan has the most all-time wins and the highest winning percentage in college football history...
squad coached by the legendary Bo Schembechler
Bo Schembechler
Glenn Edward "Bo" Schembechler, Jr. was an American football player, coach, and athletics administrator. He served as the head football coach at Miami University from 1963 to 1968 and at the University of Michigan from 1969 to 1989, compiling a career record of 234–65–8...
. The 17-14 victory in Ann Arbor
Michigan Stadium
Michigan Stadium, nicknamed "The Big House," is the football stadium for the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Michigan Stadium was built in 1927 at a cost of $950,000 and had an original capacity of 72,000. Before playing football at the stadium, the Wolverines played on Ferry Field...
, which made Rogers a household name, was one of the biggest wins in both the Carlen Era and the program's history.
Joe Morrison Era (1983-1988)
Joe MorrisonJoe Morrison
Joseph R. Morrison was an American football player in the National Football League for the New York Giants and a coach best known as the head coach at the University of South Carolina.-Playing career:...
was hired in 1983 following a one-year stint by Richard Bell. After a 5-6 mark in his first year, the "Man in Black" led South Carolina to a 10-2 record, #11 final AP Poll
AP Poll
The Associated Press College Poll refers to weekly rankings of the top 25 NCAA teams in one of three Division I college sports: football, men's basketball and women's basketball. The rankings are compiled by polling sportswriters across the nation...
ranking, and a Gator Bowl
Gator Bowl
The Gator Bowl is an annual college football bowl game played at EverBank Field in Jacksonville, Florida. Held continuously since 1946, it is the sixth oldest college bowl, as well as the first one ever televised nationally...
appearance in 1984. The 1984 season included victories over Georgia, Pittsburgh
1984 Pittsburgh Panthers football team
The 1984 Pittsburgh Panthers football team represented the University of Pittsburgh in the 1984 college football season. The Panthers offense scored 178 points while the defense allowed 247 points. At season’s end, the Panthers were not ranked in the National Polls. The Panthers had their first...
, Notre Dame, Florida State
Florida State Seminoles football
The Florida State Seminoles football team represents Florida State University in college football. The Florida State Seminoles compete in NCAA Division I-FBS and are members of the Atlantic Division of the Atlantic Coast Conference...
, and Clemson
Clemson Tigers football
The Clemson Tigers football team is an American football team from Clemson University in South Carolina. It competes in the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision and the Atlantic Division of the Atlantic Coast Conference...
. In 1987, the Gamecocks posted an 8-4 record, #15 Final AP Poll
AP Poll
The Associated Press College Poll refers to weekly rankings of the top 25 NCAA teams in one of three Division I college sports: football, men's basketball and women's basketball. The rankings are compiled by polling sportswriters across the nation...
ranking, and another Gator Bowl trip. The 1987 Gamecocks were led by the "Black Death" defense, which held seven opponents to 10 or fewer points and yielded just 141 points in 12 games played. Morrison coached his last game in the 1988 Liberty Bowl
Liberty Bowl
The Liberty Bowl is an annual U.S. American college football bowl game played in December of each year from 1959 to 2007 and in January in 2009 and 2010. The Liberty Bowl was sponsored by AXA Financial and was known as the AXA Liberty Bowl from 1997 to 2003...
, as he died on February 5, 1989 at the age of 51. He finished his USC tenure with a 39-28-2 overall record, three bowl games, and three seasons with 8 or more wins. Due to his on-field success and "Man in Black" image, Morrison remains a popular figure in Gamecock lore.
Woods and Scott Eras (1989-1993, 1994-1998)
Following Morrison's death, Sparky WoodsSparky Woods
-External links:*...
was hired as head coach in 1989 and coached the Gamecocks until the end of the 1993 season. He posted winning seasons in 1989 and 1990, but could not produce another winning campaign during his tenure. Woods has the distinction of being South Carolina's first head coach in SEC play, as the Gamecocks entered the conference in 1992. Brad Scott
Brad Scott (American football)
Brad Scott was the associate head coach and offensive line coach for the Clemson Tigers football team. Previously, from 1994 to 1998, he was the head coach of the South Carolina Gamecocks.-Career:...
took over as head coach in 1994 and led USC to a 7-5 record and a Carquest Bowl victory in his first season. The bowl win was the first post-season victory in the program's history. Scott was unable to capitalize on his early success, however, as USC won only six games during his final two seasons in Columbia.
Lou Holtz Era (1999-2004)
Lou HoltzLou Holtz
Louis Leo "Lou" Holtz is a retired American football coach, and active sportscaster, author, and motivational speaker in the United States...
was hired as South Carolina's head coach in 1999. He inherited a relatively young SEC program (joined in 1992) that posted only three winning seasons from 1990-1998. USC won just a single game the year before Holtz's arrival and, subsequently, went 0-11 in his inaugural campaign. It didn't take long for Holtz to improve the Gamecocks' fortunes, however, as he engineered 8-4 and 9-3 records in the 2000 and 2001 seasons. In addition, South Carolina won consecutive Outback Bowl
Outback Bowl
The Outback Bowl is an annual New Year's Day college football bowl game played at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. The event was originally called the Hall of Fame Bowl from 1986 to 1994 until being renamed in 1995 for its new title sponsor, Outback Steakhouse...
s over Ohio State and produced the most successful two-year run in program history, going 17-7 overall and 10-6 in SEC play. The 2000 and 2001 campaigns also saw USC's return to the polls, as the Gamecocks turned in #19 and #13 rankings in the Final AP ballotings for those years. After consecutive 5-7 finishes in 2002 and 2003 (during which the team was ranked in the Top 25 during the season both years), Holtz ended his South Carolina tenure on a winning note with a 6-5 record in 2004. Holtz finished with a 33-37 overall record at South Carolina, but went 33-26 after his first season.
Steve Spurrier Era (2005-Present)
Steve SpurrierSteve Spurrier
Stephen Orr Spurrier is an American college football coach and player. Spurrier is the current head coach of the University of South Carolina's Gamecocks football team. He is also a former professional player and coach...
was hired in 2005 to replace the departing Holtz, and he led the Gamecocks to a 7-5 record and Independence Bowl
2005 Independence Bowl
The 2005 Independence Bowl, the 30th in the history of the College Football bowl game, saw the Missouri Tigers of the Big 12 overcome a 21-0 deficit late in the first quarter to defeat the SEC's South Carolina Gamecocks, 38-31 in the 30th edition of the bowl game...
appearance in his first season. As a result, Spurrier was named the 2005 SEC Coach of the Year. The 2006 season saw continued success under Spurrier, as the Gamecocks posted an 8-5 record and a victory over Houston
2006 Houston Cougars football team
The 2006 Houston Cougars football team, also known as the Houston Cougars, Houston, or UH represented the University of Houston in the college football 2006-2007 season. It was the 61st year of season play for Houston. The team was coached by fourth year head football coach, Art Briles...
in the Liberty Bowl
2006 Liberty Bowl
http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/bowls06/bowls?game=liberty...
. South Carolina posted consecutive 7-6 records in 2008 and 2009, returning to postseason play with appearances in the Outback Bowl
Outback Bowl
The Outback Bowl is an annual New Year's Day college football bowl game played at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. The event was originally called the Hall of Fame Bowl from 1986 to 1994 until being renamed in 1995 for its new title sponsor, Outback Steakhouse...
and PapaJohns.com Bowl. No other coach in the program's history has led the program to four bowl games as coach. In 2010, Spurrier scored another first with the first SEC Eastern Division Championship in school history.
On November 13, 2010, the Gamecocks defeated Florida 36-14, clinching the Eastern Division of the SEC. Prior to this contest, South Carolina had an all-time record of 0-12 at The Swamp. Freshman RB Marcus Lattimore rushed for 212 yards and 3 touchdowns in the game. Spurrier got his first win in Gainesville as a Gamecock, received a "Gatorade Bath" from his players, and became the first coach to win the SEC East with two different teams. Earlier in the season, the Gamecocks posted the first win over a #1 team in program history, with a 35-21 victory over top-ranked, defending national champion Alabama
2010 Alabama Crimson Tide football team
The 2010 Alabama Crimson Tide football team represented the University of Alabama in the 2010 NCAA Division I FBS football season. It was the Crimson Tide's 118th overall season, 78th as a member of the Southeastern Conference and its 19th within the SEC Western Division...
.
Current Coaching Staff
| Name | Position |
|---|---|
| Steve Spurrier Steve Spurrier Stephen Orr Spurrier is an American college football coach and player. Spurrier is the current head coach of the University of South Carolina's Gamecocks football team. He is also a former professional player and coach... |
Head Coach/Offensive Coordinator |
| Lorenzo Ward | Defensive Coordinator/Cornerbacks |
| John Butler | Special Teams Coordinator |
| Shawn Elliott | Run Game Coordinator/Offensive Line |
| Jay Graham Jay Graham Jay Graham is a former running back, Tennessee Volunteers. Graham rushed for 2,609 yards in his career , ranking sixth on the Vols all-time rushing list. He is second on the all-time carries list with 540 and he scored 25 touchdowns in his four-year career as a Volunteer... |
Running Backs/Tight Ends Coach |
| Jeep Hunter | Safeties Coach |
| Ellis Johnson | Linebackers Coach |
| Brad Lawing | Defensive Line Coach |
| G.A. Mangus | Quarterbacks Coach |
| Steve Spurrier, Jr. | Receivers Coach |
Primary Rivalries
- Clemson – The Carolina-Clemson RivalryCarolina-Clemson rivalryThe South Carolina–Clemson Rivalry is an American college rivalry between the South Carolina Gamecocks sports teams of the University of South Carolina and the Clemson Tigers sports teams of Clemson University. Both institution are public universities supported by the state of South...
is the largest sporting event in the state of South Carolina. Clemson holds a 65-40-4 lead in the series, which dates back to 1896, but many of the contests have gone down to the wire. From 1896-1959, the Carolina-Clemson game was played in Columbia and referred to as "Big Thursday." Since 1960, the game has alternated between both teams' home stadiums and has become known as the "Palmetto Bowl." The last 6 match-ups between the schools have been nationally televised (3 on ESPN, 3 on ESPN2).
- Georgia – South Carolina's "border rivalry" with GeorgiaGeorgia Bulldogs footballThe Georgia Bulldogs football team represents the University of Georgia in football. The Bulldogs are a member of the Southeastern Conference and are frequently a top-25 team. The University of Georgia has had a football team since 1892 and has an all-time record of 738–398–54...
dates back to 1894. While the Bulldogs got off to a fast start in the series and hold a 46-15-2 lead, the Gamecocks have kept the series interesting recently with hotly contested games (4 out of the last 6 match-ups have been decided by a touchdown or less). One of the most memorable games was the 1980 matchup between Heisman Trophy hopefuls George Rogers and Herschel WalkerHerschel WalkerHerschel Junior Walker is an American mixed martial artist and a former American football player. He played college football for the University of Georgia Bulldogs and earned the 1982 Heisman Trophy. He began his professional career with the New Jersey Generals of the United States Football League...
. Led by Walker's 219 rushing yards, Georgia won 13-10 and would go on to capture the National Championship. Rogers turned in 168 rushing yards in the contest, setting the stage for a successful finish to his Heisman Trophy campaign. The last 14 match-ups between the schools have been nationally televised, dating back to 1997 (6 on ESPN2, 4 on ESPN and 4 on CBS).
Secondary Rivalries
- Arkansas – The annual meeting with the Razorbacks began in 1992 when both programs entered the SEC. Despite playing in different divisions (East and West), South Carolina and Arkansas are permanent opponents under the conference's scheduling structure. The rivalry started when former Clemson head coach Danny FordDanny FordDanny Lee Ford is a former American football player and coach. He played college football at the University of Alabama from 1967 to 1969. He served as the head football coach at Clemson University in South Carolina from 1978 to 1989 and at the University of Arkansas from 1993 to 1997, compiling...
took over as Arkansas head coach in 1993. It has continued since the annual contest is usually crucial in terms of bowl aspirations. The rivalry became more intense when Lou HoltzLou HoltzLouis Leo "Lou" Holtz is a retired American football coach, and active sportscaster, author, and motivational speaker in the United States...
took over at USC in 1999, as he had formerly been the head coach for Arkansas. Arkansas holds a 13-7 lead in the series.
- Florida – The USC-Florida rivalry (along with the UK-USC and UT-USC rivalries) is the most recent addition to Carolina's rivalries. However, this rivalry is considered more intense than USC-UK or UT-USC because Steve Spurrier was UF's first national championship coach but turned down an opportunity to interview for the job when it became open again in 2005. Also, that year, USC spoiled Florida's SEC championship hopes by upsetting them in Columbia, adding fuel to the fire. In 2010, Carolina clinched the SEC Eastern Division title with a 36-14 win in Gainesville. Florida holds a 23-6-3 lead in the series.
- Tennessee – The USC-UT rivalry also stems from Spurrier's arrival at USC. Spurrier made many detrimental comments about UT's football program while head coach at Florida, and Tennessee fans have not forgotten. 3 of the 6 UT-USC matchups during Spurrier's tenure at USC have been decided by a touchdown or less. The all-time record in the series is 22-6-2 in favor of Tennessee. Three of USC's wins have come from Spurrier-coached teams. The last five match-ups have been broadcast on national television (3 on ESPN, 2 on ESPN2) and 4 out of the last 5 times, one team has been ranked in the Top 25 at the time of the game (#17 and #21 for USC, #25 and #8 for UT).
- Kentucky – As members of the SEC's Eastern division, South Carolina plays Kentucky on a yearly basis. The rivalry stems from Steve Spurrier's arrival as head coach at USC. Spurrier never lost to the Wildcats while at Florida, much to the detriment of UK fans. The Gamecocks own a 15-7-1 series lead and won 10 straight games from 2000-2009. Despite South Carolina’s recent dominance, the matchup with Kentucky has been highlighted by numerous close games. 4 of the 6 USC-UK matchups during Spurrier's tenure at USC have been decided by a touchdown or less.
Intermittent Rivalries
- NC State – The NC State game was the season finale until the Clemson game was moved from "Big Thursday" after 1959. The series dates back to 1900, with the Gamecocks holding a slight 27-26-4 edge. The 1960s were the most heated of the rivalry with the series tied at 4-4-1 during that decade. These programs continued to meet annually from 1968 through 1991. However, there have been only three meetings since South Carolina joined the SEC in 1992, all of which have been televised on ESPN. The Gamecocks lost 10-0 in Raleigh in 1999, but got revenge with a 34-0 home victory in 2008. The most recent matchup in 2009 was competitive, with South Carolina winning 7-3 in Raleigh.
- North Carolina – South Carolina's rivalry with its old ACC foe North Carolina dates back to 1903. The Tar Heels hold a 34-17-4 lead in the series, but the Gamecocks have won ten out of their last fifteen games. The two programs have met eleven times since South Carolina left the ACC in 1971, with the Gamecocks holding a 6-5 lead in those games. Their most recent meeting was a 21-15 victory for the Gamecocks televised on ABC in 2007, which is the only time they have met since South Carolina joined the SEC in 1992. The intensity of the rivalry comes from South Carolina's frustration with the "Tobacco Road" schools which caused South Carolina's departure from the ACC in 1971. This is why the rivalry maintains its intensity, particularly with older fans of the two Carolinas, despite the teams rarely meeting on the field.
Bowl games
| Date | Bowl | W/L | Opponent | PF | PA | Head Coach |
| January 1, 1946 | Gator Gator Bowl The Gator Bowl is an annual college football bowl game played at EverBank Field in Jacksonville, Florida. Held continuously since 1946, it is the sixth oldest college bowl, as well as the first one ever televised nationally... |
L | Wake Forest Wake Forest Demon Deacons football The Wake Forest Demon Deacons football team represents Wake Forest University in the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision as a member of the Atlantic Coast Conference. Wake Forest plays its home football games at BB&T Field.... |
14 | 26 | McMillan |
| December 30, 1969 | Peach | L | West Virginia 1969 West Virginia Mountaineers football team The 1969 West Virginia Mountaineers football team completed the regular season with a 9–1 record and traveled to the Peach Bowl, where they beat the South Carolina Gamecocks 14–3... |
3 | 14 | Dietzel Paul Dietzel Paul Dietzel is a former American football player, coach, and college athletics administrator. He served as the head coach at Louisiana State University , the United States Military Academy , and the University of South Carolina , compiling a career record of 109–95–5... |
| December 20, 1975 | Tangerine Capital One Bowl The Capital One Bowl is an annual college football bowl game played in Orlando, Florida at the Citrus Bowl, and previously known as the Tangerine Bowl and the Florida Citrus Bowl... |
L | Miami (OH) Miami RedHawks football The Miami University RedHawks, known as the Miami Redskins before 1996, are a NCAA Division I FBS college football program that competes in the Mid-American Conference... |
7 | 20 | Carlen Jim Carlen -External links:... |
| December 20, 1979 | Hall of Fame Classic | L | Missouri Missouri Tigers football The Missouri Tigers football team represents the University of Missouri in NCAA Division I FBS college football. The team has competed in the North Division of the Big 12 Conference since the conference's inception in 1996... |
14 | 24 | Carlen |
| December 29, 1980 | Gator | L | Pittsburgh 1980 Pittsburgh Panthers football team The 1980 Pittsburgh Panthers football team represented the University of Pittsburgh in the 1980 college football season. Despite losing one game, the Panthers were named National Champions by several selectors of national championships including the College Football Researchers Association, the New... |
9 | 37 | Carlen |
| December 28, 1984 | Gator | L | Oklahoma State Oklahoma State Cowboys football The Oklahoma State Cowboys football program represents Oklahoma State University–Stillwater in college football. The team is a member of the Big 12 Conference and completes at the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision level. The Cowboys are led by Mike Gundy, who is in his seventh year as... |
14 | 21 | Morrison Joe Morrison Joseph R. Morrison was an American football player in the National Football League for the New York Giants and a coach best known as the head coach at the University of South Carolina.-Playing career:... |
| December 31, 1987 | Gator | L | LSU LSU Tigers football The LSU Tigers football team, also known as the Fighting Tigers or Bayou Bengals, represents Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, United States in NCAA Division I FBS college football. Current head coach Les Miles has led the team since 2005. Since 1999 when Nick Saban took over as... |
13 | 31 | Morrison |
| December 28, 1988 | Liberty Liberty Bowl The Liberty Bowl is an annual U.S. American college football bowl game played in December of each year from 1959 to 2007 and in January in 2009 and 2010. The Liberty Bowl was sponsored by AXA Financial and was known as the AXA Liberty Bowl from 1997 to 2003... |
L | Indiana 1988 Indiana Hoosiers football team The 1988 Indiana Hoosiers football team represented Indiana University in the 1988 NCAA Division I-A football season.-Season:*In the Old Brass Spittoon, the Hoosiers lost to Michigan State by a score of 38-12.... |
10 | 34 | Morrison |
| January 2, 1995 | Carquest | W | West Virginia | 24 | 21 | Scott Brad Scott (American football) Brad Scott was the associate head coach and offensive line coach for the Clemson Tigers football team. Previously, from 1994 to 1998, he was the head coach of the South Carolina Gamecocks.-Career:... |
| January 1, 2001 | Outback 2001 Outback Bowl The 2001 edition to the Outback Bowl featured the South Carolina Gamecocks, and the Ohio State Buckeyes.After a scoreless first quarter, South Carolina's kicker Jason Corse put the Gamecocks on the board with a 23 yard field goal, giving USC an early 3-0 lead... |
W | Ohio State 2001 Ohio State Buckeyes football team The 2001 Ohio State Buckeyes football team represented the Ohio State University in the college football season of 2001-2002. It marked their first season under new head coach Jim Tressel. The Buckeyes compiled a 7–5 record, capped by a 26–20 victory over their fierce rival the Michigan... |
24 | 7 | Holtz Lou Holtz Louis Leo "Lou" Holtz is a retired American football coach, and active sportscaster, author, and motivational speaker in the United States... |
| January 1, 2002 | Outback 2002 Outback Bowl The 2002 edition to the Outback Bowl featured the South Carolina Gamecocks, and the Ohio State Buckeyes. South Carolina had blown out Ohio State in the previous year's game, 24-7.... |
W | Ohio State 2002 Ohio State Buckeyes football team The 2002 Ohio State Buckeyes football team was the national champion of the 2002 college football season. The team was the first in Division I-A history to finish its season at 14–0, and the second to win 14 games, following BYU's 14–1 season in 1996... |
31 | 28 | Holtz |
| December 30, 2005 | Independence 2005 Independence Bowl The 2005 Independence Bowl, the 30th in the history of the College Football bowl game, saw the Missouri Tigers of the Big 12 overcome a 21-0 deficit late in the first quarter to defeat the SEC's South Carolina Gamecocks, 38-31 in the 30th edition of the bowl game... |
L | Missouri 2005 Missouri Tigers football team The 2005 Missouri Tigers football team represented the University of Missouri during the 2005 NCAA Division I FBS football season.-Schedule:... |
31 | 38 | Spurrier Steve Spurrier Stephen Orr Spurrier is an American college football coach and player. Spurrier is the current head coach of the University of South Carolina's Gamecocks football team. He is also a former professional player and coach... |
| December 29, 2006 | Liberty 2006 Liberty Bowl http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/bowls06/bowls?game=liberty... |
W | Houston 2006 Houston Cougars football team The 2006 Houston Cougars football team, also known as the Houston Cougars, Houston, or UH represented the University of Houston in the college football 2006-2007 season. It was the 61st year of season play for Houston. The team was coached by fourth year head football coach, Art Briles... |
44 | 36 | Spurrier |
| January 1, 2009 | Outback 2009 Outback Bowl The 2009 Outback Bowl was a college football bowl game played as the first official sporting event in the USA on January 1, 2009 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. Scheduled for a kickoff of 11 AM US EST and telecast on ESPN, the game pit the South Carolina Gamecocks against the Iowa... |
L | Iowa 2008 Iowa Hawkeyes football team The 2008 Iowa Hawkeyes football team represented the University of Iowa and the Iowa Hawkeyes football program in the 2008 college football season. Coached by Kirk Ferentz, the Hawkeyes played their seven home games in Kinnick Stadium.-Previous season:... |
10 | 31 | Spurrier |
| January 2, 2010 | PapaJohns.com 2010 PapaJohns.com Bowl The 2010 PapaJohns.com Bowl was a postseason college football bowl game between the Connecticut Huskies of the Big East Conference and the South Carolina Gamecocks of the Southeastern Conference , on January 2, 2010 at Legion Field in Birmingham, Alabama... |
L | Connecticut 2009 Connecticut Huskies football team The 2009 Connecticut Huskies football team represented the University of Connecticut in the 2009 college football season as a member of the Big East Conference. The team was coached by Randy Edsall and played its home games at Rentschler Field in East Hartford, Connecticut... |
7 | 20 | Spurrier |
| December 31, 2010 | Chick-fil-A 2010 Chick-fil-A Bowl The 2010 Chick-fil-A Bowl is the forty-third edition of the college football bowl game, and was played at the Georgia Dome in Atlanta, Georgia. It was played Friday, December 31, 2010 at 7:30 EST, and featured the #23 Florida State Seminoles versus the #19 South Carolina Gamecocks.-South... |
L | Florida State 2010 Florida State Seminoles football team The 2010 Florida State Seminoles football team represented Florida State University in the 2010 NCAA Division I FBS college football season. The Seminoles were led by 1st year head coach Jimbo Fisher and played their home games at Bobby Bowden Field at Doak Campbell Stadium. They were members of... |
17 | 26 | Spurrier |
| Total | 16 Bowl Games | 4-12 | 272 | 414 |
1969 Atlantic Coast Conference
In 19691969 South Carolina Gamecocks football team
The 1969 South Carolina Gamecocks football team represented the University of South Carolina during the 1969 college football season. Led by head coach Paul Dietzel, the Gamecocks won the ACC championship and were invited to the .-Schedule:...
, the Gamecocks won the ACC Championship by going undefeated in conference play. In its six ACC matchups, South Carolina outscored its opponents by a 130-61 margin. The squad posted a 7-4 overall record with a Peach Bowl appearance against West Virginia
West Virginia Mountaineers football
The West Virginia Mountaineers football team represents West Virginia University in the NCAA FBS division of college football. Dana Holgorsen is the team's 33rd head coach. He has held the position since he was promoted in June 2011 after the resignation of Bill Stewart. The Mountaineers play their...
to close the season (14-3 loss). Two years later, South Carolina left the ACC and competed as an Independent for two decades before joining the SEC in 1992.
2010 SEC Eastern Division
In 20102010 South Carolina Gamecocks football team
The 2010 South Carolina Gamecocks football team represented the University of South Carolina in the 2010 NCAA Division I FBS football season. The team's head football coach was Steve Spurrier, who was in his sixth season at USC...
, the Gamecocks won their first SEC Eastern Division Championship, going 5-3 in conference play. For the first time in school history, they defeated the #1 ranked team in the country (Alabama) and won at Florida in the division-clinching game. The season also included victories over division foes Georgia, Tennessee, and Vanderbilt as well as instate Atlantic Coast Conference rival Clemson.
Program Achievements
| SEC East Champions | 2010 |
| ACC Champions | 1969 |
| Heisman Trophy | 1980 |
| Final Top 25 (AP) | 1958, 1984, 1987, 2001, 2002, 2010 |
| Final Top 25 (Coaches) | 1984, 1987, 2001, 2002, 2010 |
| Bowl Victories* | 1994, 2001, 2002, 2006 |
- Years listed for Bowl victories are seasons for which they occurred.
Award winners
- Heisman TrophyHeisman TrophyThe Heisman Memorial Trophy Award , is awarded annually to the player deemed the most outstanding player in collegiate football. It was created in 1935 as the Downtown Athletic Club trophy and renamed in 1936 following the death of the Club's athletic director, John Heisman The Heisman Memorial...
- George RogersGeorge Rogers (American football)George Washington Rogers is a former American football player who achieved distinction in both the college and professional ranks as a running back...
- 1980
- George Rogers
- Chic Harley AwardChic Harley AwardThe Chic Harley Award is presented by the Touchdown Club of Columbus to the College Football Player of the Year. The winner is selected by a committee of college football coaches, and is named after Ohio State All-America football legend, Chic Harley. It was first presented to Ohio State's Howard...
- George RogersGeorge Rogers (American football)George Washington Rogers is a former American football player who achieved distinction in both the college and professional ranks as a running back...
- 1980
- George Rogers
- Walter Camp Coach of the Year Award
- Joe MorrisonJoe MorrisonJoseph R. Morrison was an American football player in the National Football League for the New York Giants and a coach best known as the head coach at the University of South Carolina.-Playing career:...
- 1984
- Joe Morrison
- Southern Conference Player of the Year
- Steve Wadiak - 19501950 college football seasonThe 1950 college football season finished with the unbeaten and untied Oklahoma Sooners being the overwhelming choice for national champion. On New Year’s Day, the 9-0-0 Sooners were upset by the 10-1-0 Kentucky Wildcats in the Sugar Bowl. The #2 team, the United States Military Academy had been...
- Steve Wadiak - 1950
- Atlantic Coast Conference Coach of the Year
- Paul DietzelPaul DietzelPaul Dietzel is a former American football player, coach, and college athletics administrator. He served as the head coach at Louisiana State University , the United States Military Academy , and the University of South Carolina , compiling a career record of 109–95–5...
- 19691969 college football seasonThe 1969 college football season was celebrated as the 100th anniversary of college football. During the 20th Century, the NCAA had no playoff for the college football teams that would later be described as "Division I-A"...
- Paul Dietzel
- Atlantic Coast Conference Player of the Year
- Alex HawkinsAlex HawkinsClifton Alexander "Alex" Hawkins is a retired American football player who played running back for the Baltimore Colts and Atlanta Falcons. He excelled as a special teams player...
- 19581958 college football seasonThe 1958 college football season was the first to feature the two point conversion. On January 13, 1958, the 11-man NCAA Rules Committee unanimously approved a resolution to allow teams to choose between kicking an extra point after a touchdown, or running or passing from the 3 yard line for 2... - Billy GambrellBilly GambrellWilliam Edward Gambrell is a former American football wide receiver in the National Football League. Drafted by the Boston Patriots in the 12th round of the 1963 American Football League Draft, Gambrell played for the NFL's St. Louis Cardinals and Detroit Lions ....
- 19621962 college football seasonDuring the 20th Century, the NCAA had no playoff for the college football teams that would later be described as "Division I-A". The NCAA did recognize a national champion based upon the final results of "wire service" polls. The extent of that recognition came in the form of acknowledgment in...
- Alex Hawkins
- Southeastern Conference Coach of the Year
- Lou HoltzLou HoltzLouis Leo "Lou" Holtz is a retired American football coach, and active sportscaster, author, and motivational speaker in the United States...
- 2000 - Steve SpurrierSteve SpurrierStephen Orr Spurrier is an American college football coach and player. Spurrier is the current head coach of the University of South Carolina's Gamecocks football team. He is also a former professional player and coach...
- 2005, 2010
- Lou Holtz
- Southeastern Conference Freshman of the Year
- Steve TaneyhillSteve TaneyhillSteve Taneyhill a former South Carolina Gamecock, born 7/21/73 in Altoona, PA, now coaches at Chesterfield High School in South Carolina. Taneyhill was a quarterback for the University of South Carolina from 1992 to 1995. He set a lot of still standing records. Taneyhill was also much known for...
- 1992 - Marcus LattimoreMarcus LattimoreMarcus Lattimore is an American football running back. He currently attends the University of South Carolina in his sophomore year.-Early years:...
- 2010
- Steve Taneyhill
- Walter Camp Alumni of the YearWalter Camp Alumni of the YearThe Walter Camp “Alumni of the Year” award is bestowed by the Walter Camp Football Foundation on a worthy individual who has distinguished himself in the pursuit of excellence as an athlete, in his personal career and in doing good works for others. He must be an individual who has exhibited...
- George RogersGeorge Rogers (American football)George Washington Rogers is a former American football player who achieved distinction in both the college and professional ranks as a running back...
- 2004
- George Rogers
College Football Hall of Famers
| Inductee | Position(s) | Class | Year(s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| George Rogers George Rogers (American football) George Washington Rogers is a former American football player who achieved distinction in both the college and professional ranks as a running back... |
Running back Running back A running back is a gridiron football position, who is typically lined up in the offensive backfield. The primary roles of a running back are to receive handoffs from the quarterback for a rushing play, to catch passes from out of the backfield, and to block.There are usually one or two running... |
1997 | 1977–1980 |
| Lou Holtz Lou Holtz Louis Leo "Lou" Holtz is a retired American football coach, and active sportscaster, author, and motivational speaker in the United States... |
Head coach Head coach A head coach, senior coach or manager is a professional at training and developing athletes. They typically hold a more public profile and are paid more than other coaches... |
2008 | 1999–2004 |
| Steve Spurrier Steve Spurrier Stephen Orr Spurrier is an American college football coach and player. Spurrier is the current head coach of the University of South Carolina's Gamecocks football team. He is also a former professional player and coach... |
Head coach Head coach A head coach, senior coach or manager is a professional at training and developing athletes. They typically hold a more public profile and are paid more than other coaches... |
1986 | 2005–present |
George Rogers Wins the Heisman
South Carolina's 1980 season was headlined by senior running backRunning back
A running back is a gridiron football position, who is typically lined up in the offensive backfield. The primary roles of a running back are to receive handoffs from the quarterback for a rushing play, to catch passes from out of the backfield, and to block.There are usually one or two running...
George Rogers ("Big George"), who led the nation in rushing with 1,894 yards. For his efforts, the Downtown Athletic Club
Downtown Athletic Club
The Downtown Athletic Club was a private social club and athletic club in a 35-story building located at 19 West Street, in Lower Manhattan, New York City, USA.-History:...
named Rogers the winner of the 1980 Heisman Trophy
Heisman Trophy
The Heisman Memorial Trophy Award , is awarded annually to the player deemed the most outstanding player in collegiate football. It was created in 1935 as the Downtown Athletic Club trophy and renamed in 1936 following the death of the Club's athletic director, John Heisman The Heisman Memorial...
award. Rogers beat out an impressive group of players, including Georgia running back Herschel Walker
Herschel Walker
Herschel Junior Walker is an American mixed martial artist and a former American football player. He played college football for the University of Georgia Bulldogs and earned the 1982 Heisman Trophy. He began his professional career with the New Jersey Generals of the United States Football League...
. Rogers also earned spots on eight All-American teams, all First-team honors. Behind the Rogers-led rushing attack, the Gamecocks went 8-4 overall and earned an appearance in the Gator Bowl. Rogers is also the recipient of the 1980 Chic Harley Award
Chic Harley Award
The Chic Harley Award is presented by the Touchdown Club of Columbus to the College Football Player of the Year. The winner is selected by a committee of college football coaches, and is named after Ohio State All-America football legend, Chic Harley. It was first presented to Ohio State's Howard...
, the 2004 Walter Camp Alumni of the Year
Walter Camp Alumni of the Year
The Walter Camp “Alumni of the Year” award is bestowed by the Walter Camp Football Foundation on a worthy individual who has distinguished himself in the pursuit of excellence as an athlete, in his personal career and in doing good works for others. He must be an individual who has exhibited...
award, a Pro-Bowl selection, an SEC Football Legend
SEC Football Legends
-East Division:-West Division:-References:...
, a Super Bowl champion and an NFL Rookie of the Year.
Syvelle Newton Joins the "600 Club"
From 2003 to 2006, Syvelle Newton played multiple positions for the Gamecocks and left his mark on the national record books in the process. He became one of only four players in college football history to record 600+ yards passing, rushing, and receiving (each) in a collegiate career. In Newton's four seasons, he posted 2,474 passing yards (20 TD, 13 INT), 786 rushing yards (10 TD), and 673 receiving yards (3 TD). He also returned 6 kickoffs for 115 yards (19.2 average) and posted 18 tackles and an assisted sack in limited defensive action.Gamecock Traditions
- "Block C" Helmet Logo – South Carolina's helmet, regardless of color, has featured the "Block C" logo since 1975. The logo consists of a garnet Gamecock inside a black letter "C," which stands for Carolina. This logo, which is used throughout the athletic department, is one of the most unique and recognizable in all of college sports.
- "2001" Entrance – The Gamecocks' enter Williams-Brice Stadium to the introduction of "Also sprach Zarathustra", which is popularly known for the inclusion of its introduction in the Stanley Kubrick film, "2001: A Space Odyssey2001: A Space Odyssey (film)2001: A Space Odyssey is a 1968 epic science fiction film produced and directed by Stanley Kubrick, and co-written by Kubrick and Arthur C. Clarke, partially inspired by Clarke's short story The Sentinel...
". This tradition began, on a consistent basis, in 1983. It was an immediate hit with South Carolina fans and has long been considered one of the most exciting, and loudest, entrances in college football. Sporting News has called it "the most exciting pre-game entry in college football."
- "Carolina" and "Gamecocks" on Jersey – South Carolina has featured the script "Carolina" and "Gamecocks" on the front of its jersey, intermittently, since coach Jim Carlen's arrival in 1975. While it used "Gamecocks" for much of the 1980s and early 1990s, it has solely used "Carolina" on its jersey since the late 1990s.
- Cockaboose Railroad – In 1990, cabooses renovated in Gamecock colors and decor became part of the already famous South Carolina tailgate scene. They sit on a dormant railroad track just yards from Williams-Brice Stadium and have taken on a life of their own, in terms of parties on game days. The Cockaboose Railroad has contributed to Carolina's gameday atmosphere being named "Best in the SEC" twice by SECsports.com.
- S.C. Flag and Palmetto Tree/Crescent – Due to being South Carolina's flagship university, USC prominently displays the state flag and Palmetto Tree/Crescent logo on game days. In addition to players entering the field with the state flag during "2001," the stadium's playing surface often displays garnet and white Palmetto Tree/Crescent logos.
- "If It Ain't Swayin', Then We Ain't Playin" – Originating from a Joe MorrisonJoe MorrisonJoseph R. Morrison was an American football player in the National Football League for the New York Giants and a coach best known as the head coach at the University of South Carolina.-Playing career:...
comment about the reported "swaying" of the Williams-Brice StadiumWilliams-Brice StadiumWilliams-Brice Stadium is the home football stadium for the South Carolina Gamecocks, the college football team representing the University of South Carolina in Columbia, South Carolina...
upper deck during a 38-14 win over Southern California, this has become a slogan for Carolina fans, who (according to ESPN) have become some of the loudest fans in college football. "The Cockpit" has been named by ESPN as the #25 toughest place to play in college football.
- Sir Big Spur – Sir Big Spur (originally called Cocky Doodle Lou), the university's official live gamecock, attends USC football and baseball games. Sir Big Spur is a college football celebrity: in the last 5 years alone, he has appeared on national television 15 times.
- Cocky – Cocky, celebrating his USC 30th homecoming in 2010, is the four-time "national champion" and five-time "All-American" mascot of the Gamecocks. The "son" of Carolina's original mascot Big Spur, Cocky appears at every USC home football contest.
- Sandstorm – The most recent tradition involves the song SandstormSandstorm (song)"Sandstorm" is a song by Finnish trance producer and DJ Darude. It was released on November 15, 1999 in Finland by 16 Inch Records, and re-released in Europe in 2000. "Sandstorm" was the best-selling 12" single worldwide in 2000...
by DarudeDarudeVille Virtanen , better known by his stage name Darude is a trance producer and DJ from Eura, Hinnerjoki, Finland. Debuting in 1995, he released the hit single "Sandstorm" in late 1999 and subsequent album Before the Storm...
, which began to be played in October 2006. The song is played mostly when USC is the defending team, especially when they have just scored and are kicking the ball to the other team; in this case, the song is stopped when the kicker makes contact with the football. As the song is played, fans wave over their heads either their shirt or a "Gamecock Spirit Rag."
Logos and uniforms
In the 2009 season, South Carolina wore a special uniform against Florida in support of the Wounded Warrior ProjectWounded Warrior Project
The Wounded Warrior Project is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to "honor and empower wounded warriors" of the United States Armed Forces...
.
In the 2011 season, South Carolina wore special uniforms against Auburn in support of the Wounded Warrior Project
Wounded Warrior Project
The Wounded Warrior Project is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to "honor and empower wounded warriors" of the United States Armed Forces...
.
Retired jerseys
- Steve Wadiak – the 1950 Southern Conference player of the year, Wadiak's life tragically ended in an automobile accident. His number was retired after his death.
- Mike Johnson – Mike Johnson was the starting center for the 1963 Gamecock squad as a sophomore. His career and life were cut short by an illness, and his number was retired following his death.
- George Rogers – Rogers is the most decorated player in Gamecock history and is the school's only Heisman Trophy recipient.
- Sterling Sharpe – Sharpe is a member of the Green Bay Packers' Hall of Fame. He was a 5-time Pro-Bowl selectee, the most of any Gamecock professional player.
| Retired jerseys | ||
|---|---|---|
| No. | Player | Years |
| 37 | Steve Wadiak | 1948–1951 |
| 56 | Mike Johnson | 1964 |
| 38 | George Rogers George Rogers (American football) George Washington Rogers is a former American football player who achieved distinction in both the college and professional ranks as a running back... |
1977–1980 |
| 2 | Sterling Sharpe Sterling Sharpe Sterling Sharpe is a former American football wide receiver and an analyst for the NFL Network. He attended the University of South Carolina, and played from 1988 to 1994 with the Green Bay Packers.-Early life:... |
1983, 85-87 |
Gamecocks in the NFL
- John Abraham — Atlanta FalconsAtlanta FalconsThe Atlanta Falcons are a professional American football team based in Atlanta, Georgia. They are a member of the South Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League...
- Ladi AjiboyeLadi AjiboyeOlufemi Oladipupa "Ladi" Ajiboye is an American football defensive tackle who is currently a free agent. He was signed by the Seattle Seahawks as an undrafted free agent in 2011...
— Seattle SeahawksSeattle SeahawksThe Seattle Seahawks are a professional American football team based in Seattle, Washington. They are currently members of the Western Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League . The team joined the NFL in 1976 as an expansion team... - Fred BennettFred BennettFred Bennett is an American football cornerback who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Houston Texans in the fourth round of the 2007 NFL Draft...
— Arizona CardinalsArizona CardinalsThe Arizona Cardinals are a professional American football team based in Glendale, Arizona, a suburb of Phoenix. They are currently members of the Western Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League... - Jasper BrinkleyJasper BrinkleyJasper Jerrell Brinkley is a linebacker for the Minnesota Vikings. Brinkley played his college football career for the University of South Carolina. Brinkley was selected by the Vikings in the 5th round of 2009 NFL Draft .Brinkley started at middle-linebacker due to the injury of E. J. Henderson...
— Minnesota VikingsMinnesota VikingsThe Minnesota Vikings are a professional American football team based in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The Vikings joined the National Football League as an expansion team in 1960... - Sheldon Brown — Cleveland BrownsCleveland BrownsThe Cleveland Browns are a professional football team based in Cleveland, Ohio. They are currently members of the North Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League...
- Garrett ChisolmGarrett ChisolmGarrett Chisolm is an American football offensive guard. He played college football as an offensive lineman for the South Carolina Gamecocks. As a senior, the former walk-on was selected as a second-team All-SEC player, was a semi-finalist for the William V...
— Carolina PanthersCarolina PanthersThe Carolina Panthers are a professional American football team based in Charlotte, North Carolina. They are currently members of the South Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League . The Panthers, along with the Jacksonville Jaguars, joined the NFL as expansion... - Jared CookJared CookJared Cook Jr. is an American football tight end for the Tennessee Titans of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Titans in the third round of the 2009 NFL Draft. He played college football at South Carolina.-Early years:Cook attended North Gwinnett High School in Suwanee, Georgia...
— Tennessee TitansTennessee TitansThe Tennessee Titans are a professional American football team based in Nashville, Tennessee, United States. They are members of the South Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League . Previously known as the Houston Oilers, the team began play in 1960 as a charter... - Emanuel CookEmanuel CookEmanuel Cook is an American football safety for the Baltimore Ravens of the National Football League. He was signed by the New York Jets as an undrafted free agent in 2009...
— New York JetsNew York JetsThe New York Jets are a professional football team headquartered in Florham Park, New Jersey, representing the New York metropolitan area. The team is a member of the Eastern Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League... - Chris CulliverChris CulliverChris Culliver is an American football cornerback for the San Francisco 49ers of the National Football League. He was drafted by the 49ers in the third round of the 2011 NFL Draft. He played college football at South Carolina.-External links:**...
— San Francisco 49ersSan Francisco 49ersThe San Francisco 49ers are a professional American football team based in San Francisco, California, playing in the West Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League . The team was founded in 1946 as a charter member of the All-America Football Conference and... - Clifton GeathersClifton GeathersClifton Geathers is a defensive end for the Dallas Cowboys of the National Football League...
— Dallas CowboysDallas CowboysThe Dallas Cowboys are a professional American football franchise which plays in the Eastern Division of the National Football Conference of the National Football League . They are headquartered in Valley Ranch in Irving, Texas, a suburb of Dallas... - Na'Shan GoddardNa'Shan GoddardNa'Shan Goddard is an American football offensive tackle for the Florida Tuskers of the United Football League. He was signed by the New York Giants as an undrafted free agent in 2006...
— New Orleans SaintsNew Orleans SaintsThe New Orleans Saints are a professional American football team based in New Orleans, Louisiana. They are members of the South Division of the National Football Conference of the National Football League .... - André Goodman — Denver BroncosDenver BroncosThe Denver Broncos are a professional American football team based in Denver, Colorado. They are currently members of the West Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League...
- Tori GurleyTori GurleyTori Gurley is an American football wide receiver for the Green Bay Packers of the National Football League. He was signed by the Packers as an undrafted free agent in 2011. He played college football at South Carolina...
— Green Bay PackersGreen Bay PackersThe Green Bay Packers are an American football team based in Green Bay, Wisconsin. They are members of the North Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League . The Packers are the current NFL champions... - Lemuel JeanpierreLemuel JeanpierreLemuel Jeanpierre is an American football guard for the Seattle Seahawks of the National Football League. He was signed by the Seahawks as an undrafted free agent in 2011. He played college football at South Carolina.-Professional career:...
— Seattle SeahawksSeattle SeahawksThe Seattle Seahawks are a professional American football team based in Seattle, Washington. They are currently members of the Western Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League . The team joined the NFL in 1976 as an expansion team... - Johnathan JosephJohnathan JosephJohnathan Joseph is an American football cornerback with the Houston Texans, drafted 24th overall in the 2006 NFL Draft by the Cincinnati Bengals out of South Carolina.-College career:...
— Houston TexansHouston TexansThe Houston Texans are a professional American football team based in Houston, Texas. The team is currently a member of the Southern Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League... - Jarriel KingJarriel KingJarriel King is an American football player who currently plays offensive tackle for the Seattle Seahawks of the NFL. King played college football at South Carolina.-Professional career:-External links:**...
— Seattle SeahawksSeattle SeahawksThe Seattle Seahawks are a professional American football team based in Seattle, Washington. They are currently members of the Western Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League . The team joined the NFL in 1976 as an expansion team... - Lance LauryLance LauryLance Laury is an American football linebacker who is currently a free agent. He was signed by the Seattle Seahawks as an undrafted free agent in 2006. He played college football at South Carolina....
— New York JetsNew York JetsThe New York Jets are a professional football team headquartered in Florham Park, New Jersey, representing the New York metropolitan area. The team is a member of the Eastern Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League... - Cliff MatthewsCliff MatthewsAlbert Clifford Matthews was a Manitoba lawyer and politician. In 1961, he ran for the leadership of the province's newly created New Democratic Party....
— Atlanta FalconsAtlanta FalconsThe Atlanta Falcons are a professional American football team based in Atlanta, Georgia. They are a member of the South Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League... - Jamon MeredithJamon MeredithJames Jamon Meredith is an American football offensive tackle for the Pittsburgh Steelers of the National Football League. He was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the fifth round of the 2009 NFL Draft...
— Pittsburgh SteelersPittsburgh SteelersThe Pittsburgh Steelers are a professional football team based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The team currently belongs to the North Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League . Founded in , the Steelers are the oldest franchise in the AFC... - Captain MunnerlynCaptain MunnerlynCaptain Munnerlyn is a professional American football cornerback for the Carolina Panthers of the National Football League . He was drafted by the Panthers in the seventh round of the 2009 NFL Draft...
— Carolina PanthersCarolina PanthersThe Carolina Panthers are a professional American football team based in Charlotte, North Carolina. They are currently members of the South Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League . The Panthers, along with the Jacksonville Jaguars, joined the NFL as expansion... - Jamar NesbitJamar NesbitJamar Kendric Nesbit is an American football guard who is currently a free agent. He was signed by the Carolina Panthers as an undrafted free agent in 1999. He played college football at South Carolina...
— New Orleans SaintsNew Orleans SaintsThe New Orleans Saints are a professional American football team based in New Orleans, Louisiana. They are members of the South Division of the National Football Conference of the National Football League .... - Eric NorwoodEric NorwoodEric Norwood is an American football defensive end for the Carolina Panthers. He formerly played for the University of South Carolina. During his collegiate career, he set school career records in tackles for loss and quarterback sacks...
— Carolina PanthersCarolina PanthersThe Carolina Panthers are a professional American football team based in Charlotte, North Carolina. They are currently members of the South Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League . The Panthers, along with the Jacksonville Jaguars, joined the NFL as expansion... - Sidney RiceSidney Rice-Minnesota Vikings :Rice was drafted in the 2nd round of the 2007 NFL Draft by the Minnesota Vikings. He signed a four year contract with the Vikings in 2007....
— Seattle SeahawksSeattle SeahawksThe Seattle Seahawks are a professional American football team based in Seattle, Washington. They are currently members of the Western Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League . The team joined the NFL in 1976 as an expansion team... - Dunta RobinsonDunta RobinsonWillie Dunta Robinson is an American football cornerback for the Atlanta Falcons. He was drafted by the Houston Texans 10th overall in the 2004 NFL Draft. He played college football at South Carolina.-Early years:...
— Atlanta FalconsAtlanta FalconsThe Atlanta Falcons are a professional American football team based in Atlanta, Georgia. They are a member of the South Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League... - Weslye SaundersWeslye SaundersWeslye Saunders is an American football tight end for the Pittsburgh Steelers of the National Football League. He was signed by the Steelers as an undrafted free agent in 2011...
— Pittsburgh SteelersPittsburgh SteelersThe Pittsburgh Steelers are a professional football team based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The team currently belongs to the North Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League . Founded in , the Steelers are the oldest franchise in the AFC... - Ko SimpsonKo SimpsonYukota "Ko" Simpson is an American football safety who is currently a free agent. He was drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the fourth round of the 2006 NFL Draft...
— Detroit LionsDetroit LionsThe Detroit Lions are a professional American football team based in Detroit, Michigan. They are members of the North Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League , and play their home games at Ford Field in Downtown Detroit.Originally based in Portsmouth, Ohio and... - Shaun Smith — Tennessee TitansTennessee TitansThe Tennessee Titans are a professional American football team based in Nashville, Tennessee, United States. They are members of the South Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League . Previously known as the Houston Oilers, the team began play in 1960 as a charter...
- Darian StewartDarian StewartDarian Stewart is an American football safety. He finished his senior year at the University of South Carolina...
— St. Louis RamsSt. Louis RamsThe St. Louis Rams are a professional American football team based in St. Louis, Missouri. They are currently members of the West Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League . The Rams have won three NFL Championships .The Rams began playing in 1936 in Cleveland,... - Ryan SuccopRyan SuccopRyan Barrow Succop is an American football placekicker for the Kansas City Chiefs of the National Football League. He is the 2009 Mr. Irrelevant after being selected by the Chiefs with the final pick of the 2009 NFL Draft. He played college football at South Carolina.-Early years:Succop attended...
- Kansas City ChiefsKansas City ChiefsThe Kansas City Chiefs are a professional American football team based in Kansas City, Missouri. They are a member of the Western Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League . Originally named the Dallas Texans, the club was founded by Lamar Hunt in 1960 as a... - Travelle WhartonTravelle WhartonGlenn Travelle Wharton is an American football player who currently plays offensive guard for the Carolina Panthers of the NFL...
— Carolina PanthersCarolina PanthersThe Carolina Panthers are a professional American football team based in Charlotte, North Carolina. They are currently members of the South Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League . The Panthers, along with the Jacksonville Jaguars, joined the NFL as expansion... - Troy WilliamsonTroy Williamson-Minnesota Vikings:The Vikings needed a receiver with deep speed after trading Randy Moss to Oakland, drafting Williamson with the 7th overall pick in the 2005 NFL Draft...
— Jacksonville JaguarsJacksonville JaguarsThe Jacksonville Jaguars are a professional American football team based in Jacksonville, Florida, U.S. They are currently members of the South Division of the American Football Conference in the National Football League... - Rod WilsonRod WilsonRodriques Wilson is an American football linebacker. He was drafted by the Chicago Bears in the seventh round of the 2005 NFL Draft. He played college football at South Carolina...
— Chicago BearsChicago BearsThe Chicago Bears are a professional American football team based in Chicago, Illinois. They are members of the North Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League... - Stoney WoodsonStoney WoodsonStoney Woodson is an American football cornerback who is currently a member of the Jacksonville Sharks. He was drafted by the New York Giants in the seventh round in the 2009 NFL Draft...
— Tampa Bay BuccaneersTampa Bay BuccaneersThe Tampa Bay Buccaneers are a professional American football franchise based in Tampa, Florida, U.S. They are currently members of the Southern Division of the National Football Conference in the National Football League – they are the only team in the division not to come from the old NFC West...