The long offseason is finally over, folks. After the longest offseason in any major sport, college football finally makes a return this weekend. 2026 is a huge season for South Carolina, and the Gamecocks open the year with a home game against Kent State.
South Carolina is listed as a heavy favorite against the Golden Flashes from the Mid-American Conference. But after a 4-8 season in Columbia, there are likely a few nerves amongst several South Carolina fans.
But the good news is that sixth-year head coach Shane Beamer historically does well in season openers with the Gamecocks. During his five Week 1 games, Coach Beamer is 4-1 in season openers.
Let's take a brief look at how each one of Beamer's teams performed during the first week of the season, dating back to 2021.
- 2021: 46-0 victory over Eastern Illinois
- 2022: 35-14 victory over Georgia State
- 2023: 31-17 loss vs. No. 21 North Carolina
- 2024: 23-19 win over Old Dominion
- 2025: 24-11 win over Virginia Tech
As you can see, Beamer's only loss came in 2021 to North Carolina. Against non-power schools, Beamer has won his three openers by combined scores of 104-33. Of course, the one that sticks out as too close for comfort was the Week 1 opener over Old Dominion in 2023.
The Gamecocks return several key stars from last season, including star quarterback LaNorris Sellers, running back Matt Fuller and receiver Nyck Harbor. This will be South Carolina fans' first opportunity to see what new offensive coordinator Kendal Briles offense looks like, as well.
On defense, Justin Okoronkwo and Fred Johnson return on the defensive line, as well as star safety Peyton Williams. Star EDGE rusher Dylan Stewart is also returning, although he is not expected to suit up for Week 1 as he continues rehabbing back from from his back injury he suffered last season.
South Carolina is listed as a 36.5-point favorite, so the Las Vegas oddsmakers think the Gamecocks should win by more than a few scores. That's likely the first step for Coach Beamer to convince the fanbase that things will turn around in Columbia in 2026.
The Gamecocks' season opener against the Golden State Flashes will kick off at 12:45 p.m. ET, and air live on SEC Network.
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