South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer pushed back on Monday afternoon against what he called a "conspiracy" that his coaching staff isn't using quarterback LaNorris Seller in the run game. Speaking to the media at his press conference, Beamer was firm in saying that the playbook hasn't changed from last season.
“I hear all this crap about they’re not running the quarterback enough or something. We’re calling the same gosh dang plays as we called last year, guys,” Beamer said.
The frustration stems from Gamecock fan observations that Sellers has not been featured in designed runs, zone reads, or option play despite his dual-threat ability. Against Vanderbilt on Saturday, many fans pointed out that not a single play appeared to be called specifically to highlight the star QB's legs. The absence has fueled a wave of criticism, with some questions about the staff holding Sellers back.
Mike Shula is the first coach all season to be able to stop Sellers from running.
— Marty Simpson (@martysimpson) December 31, 2024
Mike Shula is holding Sellers back. Not letting him just do what he does best and trying to keep him in the pocket isn’t working. This isn’t the NFL
— David Monts (@montsdavid20) September 14, 2025
In his press conference, Beamer also addressed the quarterback depth chart, clarifying that backup QB Luke Doty remains in the No.2 position, though he stressed that practice performance and competition remain key factors. “Competition is always on,” Beamer said, leaving the door open for adjustments should the staff feel they’re needed.
South Carolina's offense has sputtered early in the season, and Beamer's defensive responses show that the heat is building around his decisions. With Sellers sidelined for now, and the team heading into a pivotal SEC matchup against Missouri, questions surrounding the Gamecocks' offensive identity will only intensify. There will be a lot to prove in Week 4 for South Carolina.