South Carolina's annual Garnet & Black Spring Game is a tradition that is significant for players, coaches, staff, recruits, and fans alike. The spring game has always drawn substantial attendance and interest to Williams-Brice Stadium, but things are changing for the annual tradition.
In the offseason, a notable trend has emerged as several prominent football programs have chosen to cancel their spring games. Programs such as Texas, Nebraska, Michigan State, LSU, Oklahoma, West Virginia, and Ohio State have all opted out of the tradition, stating various reasons varying from concerns about player safety to logistical challenges.
In contrast, South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer has decided to proceed the spring game for the Gamecocks. The annual Garnet & Black Spring Game is slated for Friday, April 18th at 7:30 p.m. at Williams-Brice Stadium. Beamer stressed the benefits of keeping the game, which provides players a valuable opportunity to experience a gameday atmosphere and engage with the fanbase. The game not only creates excitement for the upcoming season among fans, but the game showcases what it's like to play at Willy-B for recruits in attendance.
According to the USC Athletic Department website, this year's Garnet & Black Spring Game will not be aired on television or any steaming platforms. South Carolina and other SEC schools were recently presented with the option of airing the game or providing an alternative viewing experience, courtesy of ESPN.
This year, the Gamecocks will offer a behind-the-scenes look at spring practice though a South Carolina All-Access Practice Show, which will air later this spring and summer on the SEC Network and ESPN platforms.
You can read more here about the upcoming Garnet & Black Spring Game and the ESPN behind-the-scenes look at the Gamecocks' spring practice show.