The wait is finally over, South Carolina. After a long nine-month offseason, the Gamecocks will kick off the 2026 season at home in Williams-Brice Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
In what has been sixth-year head coach Shane Beamer's biggest offseason of his career in Columbia, it's time to see what the 2026 edition of his team looks like.
The Gamecocks are favored by five touchdowns. Saturday will be Gamecock fans' first look at Kendal Briles' new offensive scheme. South Carolina wlll also get to see the return of star quarterback LaNorris Sellers, wide receiver Nyck Harbor and running back Matt Fuller. The Las Vegas oddsmakers think South Carolina will have a big day.
How to watch Kent State vs. South Carolina
- Date: Saturday, Sept. 5, 2026
- Time: 12:45 p.m. ET
- Location: Williams-Brice Stadium in Columbia, S.C.
- TV: SEC Network
- Streaming: ESPN app or website with a television subscription that includes SEC Network, or ESPN Unlimited
- Radio: Gamecock Sports Radio Network with Todd Ellis and Tommy Suggs|Sirius/XM Channel 175 or 228 (952 on app)
Saturday's game will be aired live on SEC Network, beginning at 12:45 p.m. ET. The play-by-play announcer is Taylor Zarzour, with Matt Stinchcomb on the color. On the sideline reporting will be Michella Chester.
Kent State vs. South Carolina odds
- Spread: South Carolina -36.5
- Moneyline: South Carolina -10000; Kent State +5000
- Total: 53.5 points
(Odds via FanDuel)
The Gamecocks are favored by five touchdowns. Saturday will be Gamecock fans' first look at Kendal Briles' new offensive scheme. The Las Vegas oddsmakers think South Carolina will have a big day.
ALSO READ: South Carolina fans can buy a variety of alcoholic beverages at Williams-Brice
All-time Kent State vs. South Carolina series
These two teams have met just once before, winning the only previous meeting. That season in 1995, the Gamecocks came away with an impressive 77-14 victory. South Carolina fans would be thrilled with a margin similar to that 1995 meeting.
Weather forecast in Columbia, S.C.
South Carolina fans can expect some record high temperatures, so fans are encouraged to hydrate before, during and after the game. The forecasted temperature is 99 degrees, with a heat index as high as 108.
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There is a 40% chance of rain, so we could have some weather impacting the Gamecocks here. Given that this South Carolina team has been practicing in this heat throughout fall camp, that could benefit the Gamecocks.
South Carolina injury report
The biggest injury news for South Carolina for this one is offensive tackle Jacarrius Peak and Dylan Stewart, who both will not suit up for the Gamecocks. Both have been rehabbing back from their respective injuries, with Stewart suffering a back injury last season, and Peak from a knee injury from this past winter.
Although Gamecock tight end Brady Hunt was dealing with a leg bruise last week, he is expected to be able to suit up on Saturday.
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