Highly Conflicting As South Carolina Football On The Verge of Starting Unlikely Starter Amid Injury Woes

An injured LaNorris Sellers is forcing South Carolina football to start Robby Ashford at quarterback vs. Akron.

Shane Beamer and the South Carolina football team had high hopes for LaNorris Sellers’ potential. However, due to an ankle injury to the starting quarterback, the Gamecocks will start Robby Ashford against the Akron Zips this Saturday. Sellers exited last week’s game against LSU just before halftime and did not return, missing full participation in practice this week.

Following South Carolina’s narrow 36-33 defeat to LSU, Ashford expressed his frustration about being thrust into the game against the Tigers.

“When I came in, we had the lead and a really solid defense,” Ashford explained. “I thought it was the right move to not take risks. Why not give the ball to Rocket Sanders, who is arguably the best running back in the SEC? We should have let our offensive line dominate because we had the upper hand.”

Unfortunately, South Carolina’s offense stalled, suffering multiple three-and-outs, while LSU racked up 175 yards in the third quarter and outscored the Gamecocks 20-9.

Despite these challenges, Shane Beamer remains optimistic about South Carolina football’s chances for success. Ashford continued to support his teammates, as reported by Grant Grubbs of On3.

“A lot of people can say whatever they want, but they’ve never been in my position or faced what I have. They’re just couch coaches, so their opinions don’t really matter to me,” Ashford stated. “Those critics can say what they like, but I have complete faith in Coach (Dowell Loggains) and Coach Beamer regarding our game plan. I’m not going to argue about it. My role is to lead the offense and follow the instructions I’m given.”

This season, the Gamecocks have benefitted from a strong defense, which is rated 86.3 by PFF (14th overall) and has an impressive coverage grade of 89.3 (16th). This top-tier defense is expected to effectively handle the Akron Zips, one of the lower-ranked teams in FBS.