SEC: Cliff Matthews
Full speed ahead for Matthews, Gamecocks
September, 2, 2010
9/02/10
10:30
AM ET
By
Chris Low | ESPN.com
COLUMBIA, S.C. -- If these next three months are as lively on the field as this past month has been off the field, then maybe this is the year they’ve all been waiting on at South Carolina.
They’re accustomed to waiting in these parts, though.
As in waiting for a championship season. Waiting for one of those truly special seasons, and waiting for the Gamecocks to make a move in the SEC’s Eastern Division.
“That’s the problem. Every year around here, it’s the same thing,” South Carolina senior defensive end Cliff Matthews said. “Everybody talks about it. We don’t need to talk about what we’re going to do. We just need to go do it.”
There are more than a few reasons to believe that this is indeed Steve Spurrier’s best chance of contending for an SEC Eastern Division crown since he returned to college football in 2005 and chose South Carolina as the place where he would hopefully be able to re-write history.
It hasn’t been easy. In fact, it’s been harder than Spurrier thought. He’s lost five or more games every year he’s been here. But for perspective, his 35 wins also mark the best five-year run in South Carolina history.
Entering his sixth season in Columbia, Spurrier has 17 starters returning from a year ago. But more importantly, he likes this team’s attitude, its energy and its leadership.
Matthews is one of those leaders. In his own quiet way, he’s been a steadying influence in the locker room for the past two seasons. But with Eric Norwood gone, he’s become even more of a leader.
And when he says this team absolutely won’t be affected by what’s gone on off the field the past month, he means it.
Senior tight end Weslye Saunders is suspended for Thursday night’s game for violating team rules. Saunders has talked to NCAA investigators multiple times over the past month and a half concerning allegations that he took a trip to Miami that may have been funded by agents.
Spurrier said Saunders’ suspension had nothing to do with that investigation or the NCAA’s more recent probe into the living arrangements of several South Carolina players who were staying at the Whitney Hotel.
As many as five players -- safety Akeem Auguste, cornerback C.C. Whitlock, offensive tackle Jarriel King, guard Terrence Campbell and defensive tackle Ladi Ajiboye -- could be forced to miss the Southern Miss game depending on what ruling the NCAA hands down. There’s a possibility that some of those players could also be required to miss future games.
The whole thing has hovered over the program for much of the past two weeks with some players missing practice to clear up the matter and others arriving late.
“To be honest, it doesn’t bother us at all … none of it,” said Matthews, who tied Norwood last season with a team-high seven sacks. “We’re focused. The only thing on our minds has been Southern Miss. We’re not looking at what’s behind us, and we’re not looking at what’s in front of us.
“Other people might be, but we’re not.”
Spurrier has raved about Matthews’ work ethic and the way he competes every time he’s on the field.
There’s a consistency about the 6-foot-4, 260-pound Matthews that Spurrier would like to see rub off on the whole team.
For that matter, the whole program.
The Gamecocks have won more than eight games in a season only twice in school history. And when they have had success, they haven’t been able to sustain it.
Matthews, who’s from Cheraw, S.C., doesn’t need a history lesson; nor does he want one.
He says unabashedly that an SEC championship is one of South Carolina’s goals.
“I love this team’s chemistry,” he said. “Everybody’s focused. Everybody’s hungry, and everybody’s on the same page. What we’ve got to do is stay humble, don’t beat ourselves and come prepared every week.
“One win doesn’t mean anything, no matter who it’s against. If we get a big win, we’ve got to digest it and act like we’ve won before and move on.
“We’re not going to dwell on anything this year, good or bad.”
They’re accustomed to waiting in these parts, though.
As in waiting for a championship season. Waiting for one of those truly special seasons, and waiting for the Gamecocks to make a move in the SEC’s Eastern Division.
[+] Enlarge
Streeter Lecka/Getty ImagesSenior Cliff Matthews is excited about the possibilities for this South Carolina team.
Streeter Lecka/Getty ImagesSenior Cliff Matthews is excited about the possibilities for this South Carolina team.There are more than a few reasons to believe that this is indeed Steve Spurrier’s best chance of contending for an SEC Eastern Division crown since he returned to college football in 2005 and chose South Carolina as the place where he would hopefully be able to re-write history.
It hasn’t been easy. In fact, it’s been harder than Spurrier thought. He’s lost five or more games every year he’s been here. But for perspective, his 35 wins also mark the best five-year run in South Carolina history.
Entering his sixth season in Columbia, Spurrier has 17 starters returning from a year ago. But more importantly, he likes this team’s attitude, its energy and its leadership.
Matthews is one of those leaders. In his own quiet way, he’s been a steadying influence in the locker room for the past two seasons. But with Eric Norwood gone, he’s become even more of a leader.
And when he says this team absolutely won’t be affected by what’s gone on off the field the past month, he means it.
Senior tight end Weslye Saunders is suspended for Thursday night’s game for violating team rules. Saunders has talked to NCAA investigators multiple times over the past month and a half concerning allegations that he took a trip to Miami that may have been funded by agents.
Spurrier said Saunders’ suspension had nothing to do with that investigation or the NCAA’s more recent probe into the living arrangements of several South Carolina players who were staying at the Whitney Hotel.
As many as five players -- safety Akeem Auguste, cornerback C.C. Whitlock, offensive tackle Jarriel King, guard Terrence Campbell and defensive tackle Ladi Ajiboye -- could be forced to miss the Southern Miss game depending on what ruling the NCAA hands down. There’s a possibility that some of those players could also be required to miss future games.
The whole thing has hovered over the program for much of the past two weeks with some players missing practice to clear up the matter and others arriving late.
“To be honest, it doesn’t bother us at all … none of it,” said Matthews, who tied Norwood last season with a team-high seven sacks. “We’re focused. The only thing on our minds has been Southern Miss. We’re not looking at what’s behind us, and we’re not looking at what’s in front of us.
“Other people might be, but we’re not.”
Spurrier has raved about Matthews’ work ethic and the way he competes every time he’s on the field.
There’s a consistency about the 6-foot-4, 260-pound Matthews that Spurrier would like to see rub off on the whole team.
For that matter, the whole program.
The Gamecocks have won more than eight games in a season only twice in school history. And when they have had success, they haven’t been able to sustain it.
Matthews, who’s from Cheraw, S.C., doesn’t need a history lesson; nor does he want one.
He says unabashedly that an SEC championship is one of South Carolina’s goals.
“I love this team’s chemistry,” he said. “Everybody’s focused. Everybody’s hungry, and everybody’s on the same page. What we’ve got to do is stay humble, don’t beat ourselves and come prepared every week.
“One win doesn’t mean anything, no matter who it’s against. If we get a big win, we’ve got to digest it and act like we’ve won before and move on.
“We’re not going to dwell on anything this year, good or bad.”
The watch list for the 2010 Rotary Lombardi Award is a pretty good indication that the SEC will be strong in the trenches this season.
The SEC placed 15 players on the list, including three from Alabama -- offensive tackle James Carpenter, defensive end Marcell Dareus and linebacker Dont'a Hightower.
The Rotary Lombardi Award goes to "down linemen, end-to-end, either on offense or defense, who set up no farther than 10 yards to the left or right of the ball, or linebackers who set up no farther than 5 yards deep from the line of scrimmage."
Nebraska defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh was the 2009 winner.
Here's a look at the 15 SEC players who made the 2010 preseason watch list:
The three most glaring guys missing from this list, in my opinion, are Vanderbilt linebacker Chris Marve, Tennessee tight end Luke Stocker and Ole Miss defensive end Kentrell Lockett.
The SEC placed 15 players on the list, including three from Alabama -- offensive tackle James Carpenter, defensive end Marcell Dareus and linebacker Dont'a Hightower.
The Rotary Lombardi Award goes to "down linemen, end-to-end, either on offense or defense, who set up no farther than 10 yards to the left or right of the ball, or linebackers who set up no farther than 5 yards deep from the line of scrimmage."
Nebraska defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh was the 2009 winner.
Here's a look at the 15 SEC players who made the 2010 preseason watch list:
- Georgia offensive tackle Clint Boling
- Alabama offensive tackle James Carpenter
- Alabama defensive end Marcell Dareus
- Alabama linebacker Dont'a Hightower
- Georgia outside linebacker Justin Houston
- Arkansas offensive tackle DeMarcus Love
- South Carolina defensive end Cliff Matthews
- Mississippi State defensive end Pernell McPhee
- Florida center Mike Pouncey
- Ole Miss nose tackle Jerrell Powe
- Auburn center Ryan Pugh
- South Carolina tight end Weslye Saunders
- LSU linebacker Kelvin Sheppard
- Mississippi State offensive tackle Derek Sherrod
- Auburn offensive tackle Lee Ziemba
The three most glaring guys missing from this list, in my opinion, are Vanderbilt linebacker Chris Marve, Tennessee tight end Luke Stocker and Ole Miss defensive end Kentrell Lockett.
Alabama's Marcell Dareus, Ole Miss' Kentrell Lockett, South Carolina's Cliff Matthews, Mississippi State's Pernell McPhee and Tennessee's Chris Walker have all been named to the 36-player watch list for the 2010 Ted Hendricks Award.
Honoring College and Pro Football Hall of Famer Ted Hendricks, the award goes annually to college football's top defensive end. Former Georgia star David Pollack won the award in both 2003 and 2004 and was the last SEC player to do so.
Here's a look at the entire Hendricks watch list.
Honoring College and Pro Football Hall of Famer Ted Hendricks, the award goes annually to college football's top defensive end. Former Georgia star David Pollack won the award in both 2003 and 2004 and was the last SEC player to do so.
Here's a look at the entire Hendricks watch list.
Seven different SEC teams have players on the preseason watch list for the 2010 Chuck Bednarik Award, which has been presented to the nation's top defensive player since 1995.
Alabama, Miami and North Carolina all had three players each on the 60-man list to lead the nation. Making it for the Crimson Tide were defensive end Marcell Dareus, linebacker Dont'a Hightower and safety Mark Barron.
The other SEC players making the cut were cornerback Patrick Peterson and linebacker Kelvin Sheppard of LSU, cornerback Stephon Gilmore of South Carolina, safety Ahmad Black of Florida, outside linebacker Justin Houston of Georgia, defensive end Pernell McPhee of Mississippi State, nose tackle Jerrell Powe of Ole Miss and linebacker Josh Bynes of Auburn.
Here's my list of the other SEC defenders who should have been nominated, but weren't: Vanderbilt linebacker Chris Marve, South Carolina defensive end Cliff Matthews, Florida cornerback Janoris Jenkins, Ole Miss defensive end Kentrell Lockett and Kentucky defensive end DeQuin Evans.
Here's a link to the entire Bednarik watch list.
Alabama, Miami and North Carolina all had three players each on the 60-man list to lead the nation. Making it for the Crimson Tide were defensive end Marcell Dareus, linebacker Dont'a Hightower and safety Mark Barron.
The other SEC players making the cut were cornerback Patrick Peterson and linebacker Kelvin Sheppard of LSU, cornerback Stephon Gilmore of South Carolina, safety Ahmad Black of Florida, outside linebacker Justin Houston of Georgia, defensive end Pernell McPhee of Mississippi State, nose tackle Jerrell Powe of Ole Miss and linebacker Josh Bynes of Auburn.
Here's my list of the other SEC defenders who should have been nominated, but weren't: Vanderbilt linebacker Chris Marve, South Carolina defensive end Cliff Matthews, Florida cornerback Janoris Jenkins, Ole Miss defensive end Kentrell Lockett and Kentucky defensive end DeQuin Evans.
Here's a link to the entire Bednarik watch list.
In a lot of cases, the defensive line is what has set the SEC apart over the years. When you’re strong up front defensively, you’ve always got a chance.
Who’s the strongest in the SEC this season? Here goes:
1. Ole Miss: For the second season in a row, the Rebels will be as formidable as anybody up front defensively. Senior tackle Jerrell Powe is perhaps the best interior defensive lineman in the league, and senior end Kentrell Lockett is one of the better pass-rushers. Between them, Powe and Lockett had 22 tackles for loss last season. It’s also a deep and experienced defensive line, especially at tackle, and the Rebels added a newcomer at end, junior college transfer Wayne Dorsey, who should be a factor right away.
2. Alabama: Players leave to go to the NFL, and Alabama slides in another great one right behind them. Welcome to Nick Saban’s recruiting machine. Junior end Marcell Dareus was the star of the BCS National Championship Game last season and is one of the top NFL draft prospects in the league. He’ll have to wait and see if anything comes of his trip to Miami that’s being investigated by the NCAA, but there’s no shortage of talent. Kerry Murphy may be the next star in the making and could potentially play nose or end in the Tide's scheme.
3. South Carolina: Assistant head coach for the defense Ellis Johnson would like to have a little more depth, but if everybody holds up health-wise, the Gamecocks will be plenty imposing up front defensively. It starts with senior end Cliff Matthews, who’s one of the most complete defensive linemen in the SEC. He had 10 tackles for loss, including seven sacks last season. Senior Ladi Ajiboye and junior Travian Robertson anchor the middle of the line, and both are explosive and powerful.
4. Mississippi State: As the Bulldogs attempt to make their move in Season No. 2 under Dan Mullen, the strength of their football team will be their defensive line. Senior Pernell McPhee is an All-SEC performer at end and should be even better his second time around in the league. Sophomore tackles Josh Boyd and Fletcher Cox have both bulked up to the 300-pound range after solid freshman seasons, and the Bulldogs brought in massive junior college tackle James Carmon (6-7, 345 pounds) this spring.
5. Florida: The Florida defensive linemen themselves will tell you that there aren’t any superstars in this group, but there are five seniors returning, not to mention the most talented freshman defensive line class in the country. Senior captain Justin Trattou returns full time to end after playing inside on passing situations last season. He’s healthy, too, after tearing the biceps tendon in his left arm last season. Sophomore tackle Omar Hunter is just waiting to break out, and freshmen Ronald Powell at end and Sharrif Floyd at tackle won’t have to wait long to make an impact.
6. LSU: Some new faces will be counted on to play key roles for the Tigers up front this season, but a veteran remains the centerpiece of this defensive line. Senior tackle Drake Nevis rates up there with Jerrell Powe as one of the top interior linemen in this league. The Tigers are also eager to see what redshirt freshman end Sam Montgomery and redshirt freshman tackle Michael Brockers can do after big springs. Senior Pep Levingston is moving inside to tackle after starting 10 games last season at end. One thing the Tigers would like to generate more of is sacks. They only had 21 last season, which was tied for eighth in the SEC.
7. Tennessee: The Vols have excellent depth at the end positions, starting with senior Chris Walker, who led the team with six sacks last season. Seniors Ben Martin and Gerald Williams also return at end, while former Southern California end Malik Jackson will be eligible to play this season after transferring from the Trojans. Tennessee doesn’t have much depth inside, but Montori Hughes and Marlon Walls both had solid freshman seasons. The Vols can’t afford for either, though, to go down with an injury.
8. Georgia: With the Bulldogs switching to a 3-4 defense under first-year coordinator Todd Grantham, some guys will be playing new positions. One of the keys will be junior DeAngelo Tyson at the nose and establishing some depth behind him. Grantham wants to get to a point where he has a steady rotation up front, but that may take another recruiting class or so. Senior Demarcus Dobbs is the starter at one end, while sophomore Abry Jones impressed Grantham in the spring at the other end spot.
9. Auburn: The Tigers lost their top playmaker up front last season in Antonio Coleman and are hopeful senior Antoine Carter can step in and be that guy this season at end. The first thing Auburn has to do if it’s going be a better defense this season is be stingier against the run. Senior Mike Blanc returns at one tackle, and the Tigers are also counting on a big season from junior tackle Nick Fairley, who showed flashes a year ago. Another guy to watch is redshirt freshman end Nosa Eguae, who would have played last season had it not been for a stress fracture in his left foot.
10. Arkansas: The Hogs will be better on defense this season. So says Arkansas coach Bobby Petrino, and they’ll need to be better if they’re going to make a run in the Western Division race. The depth should be better, although losing Malcolm Sheppard in the middle is a killer. Junior end Jake Bequette had 5.5 sacks last season and is one of those guys who could really blossom this season. Junior Zach Stadther returns at one tackle. Sophomore Tenarius Wright missed the spring with a foot injury, but will also be a key at the other end position.
11. Kentucky: The big blow for the Wildcats was losing tackle Corey Peters, who was dominant a year ago and made everybody around him that much better. Replacing him will be a chore, but Kentucky hopes Mark Crawford can have a breakout season inside after coming over from junior college last year. Speaking of breakout seasons, senior end DeQuin Evans emerged as one of the most productive pass-rushers in the league last season, his first in the SEC after coming over from junior college. He finished with 12.5 tackles for loss, including six sacks.
12. Vanderbilt: The bad news is that senior tackle Adam Smotherman tore his ACL early in spring practice. The good news is that he’s recovering quicker than anybody could have imagined and has a chance to be back for at least part of the season. The Commodores need Smotherman and T.J. Greenstone there in the middle, especially after losing three key senior defensive linemen to graduation. It was a struggle for Vanderbilt up front defensively in the fourth quarter last season. That will again be the challenge in 2010.
Who’s the strongest in the SEC this season? Here goes:
[+] Enlarge
Icon SMIJerrell Powe is arguably the best interior D-lineman in the SEC.
Icon SMIJerrell Powe is arguably the best interior D-lineman in the SEC.2. Alabama: Players leave to go to the NFL, and Alabama slides in another great one right behind them. Welcome to Nick Saban’s recruiting machine. Junior end Marcell Dareus was the star of the BCS National Championship Game last season and is one of the top NFL draft prospects in the league. He’ll have to wait and see if anything comes of his trip to Miami that’s being investigated by the NCAA, but there’s no shortage of talent. Kerry Murphy may be the next star in the making and could potentially play nose or end in the Tide's scheme.
3. South Carolina: Assistant head coach for the defense Ellis Johnson would like to have a little more depth, but if everybody holds up health-wise, the Gamecocks will be plenty imposing up front defensively. It starts with senior end Cliff Matthews, who’s one of the most complete defensive linemen in the SEC. He had 10 tackles for loss, including seven sacks last season. Senior Ladi Ajiboye and junior Travian Robertson anchor the middle of the line, and both are explosive and powerful.
4. Mississippi State: As the Bulldogs attempt to make their move in Season No. 2 under Dan Mullen, the strength of their football team will be their defensive line. Senior Pernell McPhee is an All-SEC performer at end and should be even better his second time around in the league. Sophomore tackles Josh Boyd and Fletcher Cox have both bulked up to the 300-pound range after solid freshman seasons, and the Bulldogs brought in massive junior college tackle James Carmon (6-7, 345 pounds) this spring.
5. Florida: The Florida defensive linemen themselves will tell you that there aren’t any superstars in this group, but there are five seniors returning, not to mention the most talented freshman defensive line class in the country. Senior captain Justin Trattou returns full time to end after playing inside on passing situations last season. He’s healthy, too, after tearing the biceps tendon in his left arm last season. Sophomore tackle Omar Hunter is just waiting to break out, and freshmen Ronald Powell at end and Sharrif Floyd at tackle won’t have to wait long to make an impact.
6. LSU: Some new faces will be counted on to play key roles for the Tigers up front this season, but a veteran remains the centerpiece of this defensive line. Senior tackle Drake Nevis rates up there with Jerrell Powe as one of the top interior linemen in this league. The Tigers are also eager to see what redshirt freshman end Sam Montgomery and redshirt freshman tackle Michael Brockers can do after big springs. Senior Pep Levingston is moving inside to tackle after starting 10 games last season at end. One thing the Tigers would like to generate more of is sacks. They only had 21 last season, which was tied for eighth in the SEC.
[+] Enlarge
AP Photo/John RaouxChris Walker led the Vols with six sacks last season.
AP Photo/John RaouxChris Walker led the Vols with six sacks last season.8. Georgia: With the Bulldogs switching to a 3-4 defense under first-year coordinator Todd Grantham, some guys will be playing new positions. One of the keys will be junior DeAngelo Tyson at the nose and establishing some depth behind him. Grantham wants to get to a point where he has a steady rotation up front, but that may take another recruiting class or so. Senior Demarcus Dobbs is the starter at one end, while sophomore Abry Jones impressed Grantham in the spring at the other end spot.
9. Auburn: The Tigers lost their top playmaker up front last season in Antonio Coleman and are hopeful senior Antoine Carter can step in and be that guy this season at end. The first thing Auburn has to do if it’s going be a better defense this season is be stingier against the run. Senior Mike Blanc returns at one tackle, and the Tigers are also counting on a big season from junior tackle Nick Fairley, who showed flashes a year ago. Another guy to watch is redshirt freshman end Nosa Eguae, who would have played last season had it not been for a stress fracture in his left foot.
10. Arkansas: The Hogs will be better on defense this season. So says Arkansas coach Bobby Petrino, and they’ll need to be better if they’re going to make a run in the Western Division race. The depth should be better, although losing Malcolm Sheppard in the middle is a killer. Junior end Jake Bequette had 5.5 sacks last season and is one of those guys who could really blossom this season. Junior Zach Stadther returns at one tackle. Sophomore Tenarius Wright missed the spring with a foot injury, but will also be a key at the other end position.
11. Kentucky: The big blow for the Wildcats was losing tackle Corey Peters, who was dominant a year ago and made everybody around him that much better. Replacing him will be a chore, but Kentucky hopes Mark Crawford can have a breakout season inside after coming over from junior college last year. Speaking of breakout seasons, senior end DeQuin Evans emerged as one of the most productive pass-rushers in the league last season, his first in the SEC after coming over from junior college. He finished with 12.5 tackles for loss, including six sacks.
12. Vanderbilt: The bad news is that senior tackle Adam Smotherman tore his ACL early in spring practice. The good news is that he’s recovering quicker than anybody could have imagined and has a chance to be back for at least part of the season. The Commodores need Smotherman and T.J. Greenstone there in the middle, especially after losing three key senior defensive linemen to graduation. It was a struggle for Vanderbilt up front defensively in the fourth quarter last season. That will again be the challenge in 2010.
HOOVER, Ala. -- We heard a lot of talk about unscrupulous agents on Day 1 of the SEC media days. I suspect we may hear some more about agents today, especially with Georgia on the docket.
The Bulldogs are the latest SEC team to fall under the NCAA's microscope concerning possible improper dealings with an agent. South Carolina is up today, too, and NCAA investigators have already talked to Gamecocks tight end Weslye Saunders about a trip to Miami and how it was funded.
Here's a look at today's lineup:
From 9:30 a.m. to 12:10 p.m. ET: Arkansas and Georgia
The Arkansas players attending are quarterback Ryan Mallett, tight end D.J. Williams and defensive end Jake Bequette.
The Georgia players attending are receiver A.J. Green, fullback Shaun Chapas and punter Drew Butler.
From 11:50 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. ET: South Carolina and Vanderbilt
The South Carolina players attending are fullback/tight end Patrick DiMarco, defensive end Cliff Matthews and linebacker Shaq Wilson.
The Vanderbilt players attending are running back/return specialist Warren Norman, linebacker John Stokes and linebacker Chris Marve.
The Bulldogs are the latest SEC team to fall under the NCAA's microscope concerning possible improper dealings with an agent. South Carolina is up today, too, and NCAA investigators have already talked to Gamecocks tight end Weslye Saunders about a trip to Miami and how it was funded.
Here's a look at today's lineup:
From 9:30 a.m. to 12:10 p.m. ET: Arkansas and Georgia
The Arkansas players attending are quarterback Ryan Mallett, tight end D.J. Williams and defensive end Jake Bequette.
The Georgia players attending are receiver A.J. Green, fullback Shaun Chapas and punter Drew Butler.
From 11:50 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. ET: South Carolina and Vanderbilt
The South Carolina players attending are fullback/tight end Patrick DiMarco, defensive end Cliff Matthews and linebacker Shaq Wilson.
The Vanderbilt players attending are running back/return specialist Warren Norman, linebacker John Stokes and linebacker Chris Marve.
Here's the lineup of players attending next week at the SEC Football Media Days in Hoover, Ala. The three-day event will run from July 21-23:
Alabama: RB Mark Ingram / LB Dont’a Hightower / QB Greg McElroy
Arkansas: QB Ryan Mallett / TE D.J. Williams / DE Jake Bequette
Auburn: OT Lee Ziemba / LB Josh Bynes / DB Aairon Savage
Florida: C Mike Pouncey / DE Justin Trattou / SAF Ahmad Black
Georgia: WR A.J. Green / P Drew Butler / FB Shaun Chapas
Kentucky: WR-QB-PR-KOR Randall Cobb / DE DeQuin Evans / TB-KOR Derrick Locke
LSU: QB Jordan Jefferson / LB Kelvin Sheppard / CB Patrick Peterson
Ole Miss: DT Jerrell Powe / DE Kentrell Lockett / OT Bradley Sowell
Mississippi State: DB Charles Mitchell / QB Chris Relf / OL Quentin Saulsberry
South Carolina: FB Patrick DiMarco / LB Shaq Wilson / DE Cliff Matthews
Tennessee: TE Luke Stocker / DE Chris Walker / LB Nick Reveiz
Vanderbilt: LB Chris Marve / RB-RS Warren Norman / LB John Stokes
Alabama: RB Mark Ingram / LB Dont’a Hightower / QB Greg McElroy
Arkansas: QB Ryan Mallett / TE D.J. Williams / DE Jake Bequette
Auburn: OT Lee Ziemba / LB Josh Bynes / DB Aairon Savage
Florida: C Mike Pouncey / DE Justin Trattou / SAF Ahmad Black
Georgia: WR A.J. Green / P Drew Butler / FB Shaun Chapas
Kentucky: WR-QB-PR-KOR Randall Cobb / DE DeQuin Evans / TB-KOR Derrick Locke
LSU: QB Jordan Jefferson / LB Kelvin Sheppard / CB Patrick Peterson
Ole Miss: DT Jerrell Powe / DE Kentrell Lockett / OT Bradley Sowell
Mississippi State: DB Charles Mitchell / QB Chris Relf / OL Quentin Saulsberry
South Carolina: FB Patrick DiMarco / LB Shaq Wilson / DE Cliff Matthews
Tennessee: TE Luke Stocker / DE Chris Walker / LB Nick Reveiz
Vanderbilt: LB Chris Marve / RB-RS Warren Norman / LB John Stokes
SEC fills Nagurski, Outland watch lists
June, 22, 2010
6/22/10
3:30
PM ET
By
Adam Rittenberg | ESPN.com
The Football Writers Association of America on Monday published its preseason watch lists for the Bronko Nagurski Trophy (nation's top defensive player) and the Outland Trophy (nation's top interior lineman). As expected, the SEC was well represented on both lists.
Here's a look:
BRONKO NAGURSKI TROPHY
OUTLAND TROPHY
Here's a look:
BRONKO NAGURSKI TROPHY
- Alabama S Mark Barron
- Alabama DE Marcell Dareus
- South Carolina CB Stephon Gilmore
- Alabama LB Dont'a Hightower
- Georgia LB Justin Houston
- Florida CB Janoris Jenkins
- Vanderbilt LB Chris Marve
- South Carolina DE Cliff Matthews
- LSU CB Patrick Peterson
- Ole Miss DT Jerrell Powe
- LSU LB Kelvin Sheppard
- Auburn LB Craig Stevens
OUTLAND TROPHY
- Georgia T Clint Boling
- Alabama T James Carpenter
- Florida DT Omar Hunter
- Florida G Carl Johnson
- Alabama G Barrett Jones
- Georgia C Ben Jones
- Arkansas T DeMarcus Love
- LSU DT Drake Nevis
- Florida C Mike Pouncey
- Ole Miss DT Jerrell Powe
- Auburn T Lee Ziemba
We’re at No. 20 and counting today in our ranking of the SEC’s 25 best players. This next guy is one of the top defensive linemen in the league.
No. 20: Cliff Matthews, DE, Sr., South Carolina
2009 numbers: Recorded 47 total tackles, including 10 tackles for loss. Tied for fourth in the SEC with seven sacks, while leading the league with four fumble recoveries and tying for second with three forced fumbles.
Most recent ranking: Not ranked in preseason or postseason countdown for 2009.
Making the case for Matthews: One of the hardest working players in the league, the 6-4, 260-pound Matthews never gives up on a play. It’s a big reason South Carolina coach Steve Spurrier calls Matthews one of his favorite players that he’s ever coached. A second-team All-SEC selection last season by the coaches, Matthews has started in 33 games over his career and racked up 17.5 tackles for loss. He’s as good against the run as he is getting to the passer. Matthews, who started his career as an outside linebacker, has tremendous quickness off the ball, which makes him such an effective pass-rusher. But he also sheds blocks extremely well and doesn’t lose too many one-on-one battles. If you’re looking for big plays, Matthews is your guy. He had two sacks, a fumble recovery and a forced fumble in the upset win over Ole Miss last season. He preserved the win over Kentucky by batting down what would have been the game-tying two-point conversion late in that game. He also had a sack in the win over Clemson to end the regular season. Matthews might have been overshadowed some by Eric Norwood a year ago, but the South Carolina defensive coaches will tell you that Matthews was as valuable as anybody on their roster. He missed the spring while rehabilitating from shoulder surgery, an injury he battled through toward the end of last season. He should be healthy for the fall, though, and is poised to have his best season yet.
The rundown
No. 21: Clint Boling, OT, Sr., Georgia
No. 22: Greg Childs, WR, Jr., Arkansas
No. 23: Washaun Ealey, RB, So., Georgia
No. 24: Chris Marve, Jr., LB, Vanderbilt
No. 25: Luke Stocker, Sr., TE, Tennessee
No. 20: Cliff Matthews, DE, Sr., South Carolina
2009 numbers: Recorded 47 total tackles, including 10 tackles for loss. Tied for fourth in the SEC with seven sacks, while leading the league with four fumble recoveries and tying for second with three forced fumbles.
Most recent ranking: Not ranked in preseason or postseason countdown for 2009.
Making the case for Matthews: One of the hardest working players in the league, the 6-4, 260-pound Matthews never gives up on a play. It’s a big reason South Carolina coach Steve Spurrier calls Matthews one of his favorite players that he’s ever coached. A second-team All-SEC selection last season by the coaches, Matthews has started in 33 games over his career and racked up 17.5 tackles for loss. He’s as good against the run as he is getting to the passer. Matthews, who started his career as an outside linebacker, has tremendous quickness off the ball, which makes him such an effective pass-rusher. But he also sheds blocks extremely well and doesn’t lose too many one-on-one battles. If you’re looking for big plays, Matthews is your guy. He had two sacks, a fumble recovery and a forced fumble in the upset win over Ole Miss last season. He preserved the win over Kentucky by batting down what would have been the game-tying two-point conversion late in that game. He also had a sack in the win over Clemson to end the regular season. Matthews might have been overshadowed some by Eric Norwood a year ago, but the South Carolina defensive coaches will tell you that Matthews was as valuable as anybody on their roster. He missed the spring while rehabilitating from shoulder surgery, an injury he battled through toward the end of last season. He should be healthy for the fall, though, and is poised to have his best season yet.
The rundown
No. 21: Clint Boling, OT, Sr., Georgia
No. 22: Greg Childs, WR, Jr., Arkansas
No. 23: Washaun Ealey, RB, So., Georgia
No. 24: Chris Marve, Jr., LB, Vanderbilt
No. 25: Luke Stocker, Sr., TE, Tennessee
2009 overall record: 7-6
2009 conference record: 3-5
Returning starters
Offense: 8; Defense: 7; Kicker/punter: 2
Top returners
QB Stephen Garcia, WR Alshon Jeffery, TE Weslye Saunders, C T.J. Johnson, DE Cliff Matthews, LB Shaq Wilson, CB Stephon Gilmore, CB Chris Culliver.
Key losses
WR Moe Brown, DE Clifton Geathers, LB Eric Norwood, SS Darian Stewart
2009 statistical leaders (* returners)
Rushing: Kenny Miles* (626 yards)
Passing: Stephen Garcia* (2,862 yards)
Receiving: Alshon Jeffery* (763 yards)
Tackles: Shaq Wilson* (85)
Sacks: Cliff Matthews* and Eric Norwood (7)
Interceptions: Eric Norwood (2)
Spring answers
1. Spurrier back in charge: It’s been a hot button around Columbia for the last two years, but South Carolina coach Steve Spurrier made it clear this spring that he would be calling all of the plays next season on offense. He insists that he called most of them last season. But there’s no gray area now. Moreover, he says he’s going back to the way he was at Florida, and in his words, start being more of a jerk and doing more yelling to cut down on what Spurrier says has been too much soft play.
2. Young talent: There’s no debating the young talent in this program, and lot of them are sophomores. The likes of cornerback Stephon Gilmore, receiver Alshon Jeffery, receiver Tori Gurley, safety DeVonte Holloman and running back Jarvis Giles make for a solid nucleus. Prized freshman running back Marcus Lattimore is on the way along with three freshman offensive linemen – A.J. Cann, Tramell Williams and Ronald Patrick – that Spurrier thinks will be able to help sooner rather than later.
3. Defensive pride: The Gamecocks have finished in the top 15 nationally each of the last two years in total defense, and they have the pieces in place to be just as good in 2010 under Ellis Johnson, the assistant head coach for the defense. Cliff Matthews was injured this spring, but is an All-SEC defensive lineman. There’s outstanding speed across the board, and Gilmore returns as one of the top corners in the league. It’s a defense that has consistently played with pride and purpose under Johnson.
Fall questions
1. Garcia’s commitment: Spurrier has made it known (loud and clear) that Stephen Garcia better not get too comfortable this summer as the starting quarterback. The Head Ball Coach is down on Garcia’s commitment and work ethic and is seriously considering playing freshman Connor Shaw if Garcia doesn’t have a good summer. Spurrier has never been hesitant about criticizing his quarterbacks. But this is a gamble, especially if Garcia doesn’t respond and Spurrier loses him.
2. Offensive line stability: The Gamecocks are on their third different offensive line coach in three years. But that’s not the worst part. They’re still extremely unsettled up front, so much so that Spurrier isn't ruling out that a freshman or two could come in and play. New offensive line coach Shawn Elliott has his work cut out. South Carolina gave up 37 sacks a year ago and was last in the SEC in rushing offense. The two stalwarts are Jarriel King at left tackle and T.J. Johnson at center. The Gamecocks could use a healthy Quintin Richardson at right tackle in the fall. He was injured this spring.
3. Handling expectations: With 15 starters returning and the East race seemingly more wide open than it has been in a while, there’s a growing feeling that this may be Spurrier’s best chance yet at South Carolina to contend for a title. The players are all talking a good game and say they’re committed to making it happen this season. We’ll find out soon enough if they’re sincere. Georgia comes to Columbia the second week of the season. If the Gamecocks are going to be a legitimate contender, that’s a game they’ve got to win.
2009 conference record: 3-5
Returning starters
Offense: 8; Defense: 7; Kicker/punter: 2
Top returners
QB Stephen Garcia, WR Alshon Jeffery, TE Weslye Saunders, C T.J. Johnson, DE Cliff Matthews, LB Shaq Wilson, CB Stephon Gilmore, CB Chris Culliver.
Key losses
WR Moe Brown, DE Clifton Geathers, LB Eric Norwood, SS Darian Stewart
2009 statistical leaders (* returners)
Rushing: Kenny Miles* (626 yards)
Passing: Stephen Garcia* (2,862 yards)
Receiving: Alshon Jeffery* (763 yards)
Tackles: Shaq Wilson* (85)
Sacks: Cliff Matthews* and Eric Norwood (7)
Interceptions: Eric Norwood (2)
Spring answers
1. Spurrier back in charge: It’s been a hot button around Columbia for the last two years, but South Carolina coach Steve Spurrier made it clear this spring that he would be calling all of the plays next season on offense. He insists that he called most of them last season. But there’s no gray area now. Moreover, he says he’s going back to the way he was at Florida, and in his words, start being more of a jerk and doing more yelling to cut down on what Spurrier says has been too much soft play.
2. Young talent: There’s no debating the young talent in this program, and lot of them are sophomores. The likes of cornerback Stephon Gilmore, receiver Alshon Jeffery, receiver Tori Gurley, safety DeVonte Holloman and running back Jarvis Giles make for a solid nucleus. Prized freshman running back Marcus Lattimore is on the way along with three freshman offensive linemen – A.J. Cann, Tramell Williams and Ronald Patrick – that Spurrier thinks will be able to help sooner rather than later.
3. Defensive pride: The Gamecocks have finished in the top 15 nationally each of the last two years in total defense, and they have the pieces in place to be just as good in 2010 under Ellis Johnson, the assistant head coach for the defense. Cliff Matthews was injured this spring, but is an All-SEC defensive lineman. There’s outstanding speed across the board, and Gilmore returns as one of the top corners in the league. It’s a defense that has consistently played with pride and purpose under Johnson.
Fall questions
1. Garcia’s commitment: Spurrier has made it known (loud and clear) that Stephen Garcia better not get too comfortable this summer as the starting quarterback. The Head Ball Coach is down on Garcia’s commitment and work ethic and is seriously considering playing freshman Connor Shaw if Garcia doesn’t have a good summer. Spurrier has never been hesitant about criticizing his quarterbacks. But this is a gamble, especially if Garcia doesn’t respond and Spurrier loses him.
2. Offensive line stability: The Gamecocks are on their third different offensive line coach in three years. But that’s not the worst part. They’re still extremely unsettled up front, so much so that Spurrier isn't ruling out that a freshman or two could come in and play. New offensive line coach Shawn Elliott has his work cut out. South Carolina gave up 37 sacks a year ago and was last in the SEC in rushing offense. The two stalwarts are Jarriel King at left tackle and T.J. Johnson at center. The Gamecocks could use a healthy Quintin Richardson at right tackle in the fall. He was injured this spring.
3. Handling expectations: With 15 starters returning and the East race seemingly more wide open than it has been in a while, there’s a growing feeling that this may be Spurrier’s best chance yet at South Carolina to contend for a title. The players are all talking a good game and say they’re committed to making it happen this season. We’ll find out soon enough if they’re sincere. Georgia comes to Columbia the second week of the season. If the Gamecocks are going to be a legitimate contender, that’s a game they’ve got to win.
The SEC is well represented on the preliminary watch list for the 2010 Rotary Lombardi Award.
There are 13 players from the SEC on the list, which will be updated prior to the start of the 2010 season.
Here are the SEC players making the cut:
There are 13 players from the SEC on the list, which will be updated prior to the start of the 2010 season.
Here are the SEC players making the cut:
- Clint Boling, OT, Georgia
- James Carpenter, OT, Alabama
- Marcell Dareus, DE, Alabama
- Dont'a Hightower, LB, Alabama
- Justin Houston, OLB, Georgia
- Cliff Matthews, DE, South Carolina
- Pernell McPhee, DE, Mississippi State
- Mike Pouncey, OG, Florida
- Jerrell Powe, DT, Ole Miss
- Ryan Pugh, C, Auburn
- Weslye Saunders, TE, South Carolina
- Kelvin Sheppard, LB, LSU
- Lee Ziemba, OT, Auburn
It’s not Pernell McPhee’s style to say where he rates among the top defensive linemen in college football, or even the SEC, heading into next season.
Talking about himself doesn’t come naturally.
What does come naturally for Mississippi State’s talented defensive end is making life miserable for whoever’s trying to block him that game.
“I want him to know that I’m going to be there all day,” McPhee said.
The Bulldogs wrap up their spring on Saturday with their annual Maroon-White spring game. For the most part, it’s been a spring dominated by McPhee and his cohorts up front defensively.
It’s a defensive line, particularly with sophomore tackles Fletcher Cox and Josh Boyd blossoming, that should be one of the best Mississippi State has fielded in a long time.
But, then, players like McPhee don’t come around that often.
The best news for Mississippi State fans is that McPhee figures to be an even more complete player in 2010. At 6-4, he expects to play at about 285 pounds next season after playing at 275 a year ago.
His knowledge of the Mississippi State defense has grown exponentially along with his feel of what offenses are trying to do.
“I was playing mostly on instincts and talent last year,” McPhee said. “I was just going on the snap and not really with the smarts I needed to. I’m more of a student of the game now. I’m into the film work, studying the guy I’m going against, what offenses are doing with different formations and picking up the little things that make the difference.
“I’m all about creating trouble in the backfield, and I think I’ll be able to do more of that next season.”
McPhee, who came to Mississippi State from Itawamaba (Miss.) Community College, created his share of problems for opposing offenses last season in his first junket through the SEC. He finished tied for fourth among SEC defensive ends with 12 tackles for loss, including five sacks. He also led the Bulldogs with eight quarterback hurries.
“I still didn’t play at the speed I wanted to,” McPhee said. “I feel like I was going hard all the time. I’m always going to do that. I just want to make more big plays. That’s what I have to bring to this team next year.”
McPhee hit it off immediately with first-year defensive line coach Chris Wilson, who saw a few big-time defensive linemen come through Norman during his time on the Oklahoma staff.
McPhee said Wilson speaks his language.
“He wants to attack, and that’s the way I like to play,” McPhee said. “We’re going to go after people this year.”
And while McPhee won’t say it himself, he heads into the 2010 season as one of the premier defensive linemen in the SEC. It’s a group that includes Alabama’s Marcell Dareus, South Carolina’s Cliff Matthews, LSU’s Drake Nevis, Tennessee’s Chris Walker, Kentucky’s DeQuin Evans and Ole Miss’ Jerrell Powe and Kentrell Lockett.
A big senior season could push McPhee to the forefront nationally. He admits that he considered turning pro following last season, but felt like he needed another year of college ball to develop.
“The best defensive ends do it all,” McPhee said. “They rush the passer. They play the run. They force turnovers. They make things happen. I’m talking about guys like Julius Peppers. That’s where I want to get to as a player, and I’m going to keep pushing myself to get there.”
Talking about himself doesn’t come naturally.
What does come naturally for Mississippi State’s talented defensive end is making life miserable for whoever’s trying to block him that game.
[+] Enlarge
AP Photo/Danny JohnstonMississippi State's Pernell McPhee (90) could be one of the top defensive linemen in college football in 2010.
AP Photo/Danny JohnstonMississippi State's Pernell McPhee (90) could be one of the top defensive linemen in college football in 2010.The Bulldogs wrap up their spring on Saturday with their annual Maroon-White spring game. For the most part, it’s been a spring dominated by McPhee and his cohorts up front defensively.
It’s a defensive line, particularly with sophomore tackles Fletcher Cox and Josh Boyd blossoming, that should be one of the best Mississippi State has fielded in a long time.
But, then, players like McPhee don’t come around that often.
The best news for Mississippi State fans is that McPhee figures to be an even more complete player in 2010. At 6-4, he expects to play at about 285 pounds next season after playing at 275 a year ago.
His knowledge of the Mississippi State defense has grown exponentially along with his feel of what offenses are trying to do.
“I was playing mostly on instincts and talent last year,” McPhee said. “I was just going on the snap and not really with the smarts I needed to. I’m more of a student of the game now. I’m into the film work, studying the guy I’m going against, what offenses are doing with different formations and picking up the little things that make the difference.
“I’m all about creating trouble in the backfield, and I think I’ll be able to do more of that next season.”
McPhee, who came to Mississippi State from Itawamaba (Miss.) Community College, created his share of problems for opposing offenses last season in his first junket through the SEC. He finished tied for fourth among SEC defensive ends with 12 tackles for loss, including five sacks. He also led the Bulldogs with eight quarterback hurries.
“I still didn’t play at the speed I wanted to,” McPhee said. “I feel like I was going hard all the time. I’m always going to do that. I just want to make more big plays. That’s what I have to bring to this team next year.”
McPhee hit it off immediately with first-year defensive line coach Chris Wilson, who saw a few big-time defensive linemen come through Norman during his time on the Oklahoma staff.
McPhee said Wilson speaks his language.
“He wants to attack, and that’s the way I like to play,” McPhee said. “We’re going to go after people this year.”
And while McPhee won’t say it himself, he heads into the 2010 season as one of the premier defensive linemen in the SEC. It’s a group that includes Alabama’s Marcell Dareus, South Carolina’s Cliff Matthews, LSU’s Drake Nevis, Tennessee’s Chris Walker, Kentucky’s DeQuin Evans and Ole Miss’ Jerrell Powe and Kentrell Lockett.
A big senior season could push McPhee to the forefront nationally. He admits that he considered turning pro following last season, but felt like he needed another year of college ball to develop.
“The best defensive ends do it all,” McPhee said. “They rush the passer. They play the run. They force turnovers. They make things happen. I’m talking about guys like Julius Peppers. That’s where I want to get to as a player, and I’m going to keep pushing myself to get there.”
The Lott Trophy watch list for the 2010 season is out, and six players from the SEC made the cut.
The Lott Trophy honors college football's defensive IMPACT player of the year and gives equal weight to personal character and athletic performance on the field. TCU's Jerry Hughes was the 2009 winner.
Making the watch list from the SEC were Alabama safety Mark Barron, Georgia cornerback Brandon Boykin, Florida linebacker A.J. Jones, South Carolina defensive end Cliff Matthews, LSU cornerback Patrick Peterson and LSU linebacker Kelvin Sheppard.
The Lott Trophy honors college football's defensive IMPACT player of the year and gives equal weight to personal character and athletic performance on the field. TCU's Jerry Hughes was the 2009 winner.
Making the watch list from the SEC were Alabama safety Mark Barron, Georgia cornerback Brandon Boykin, Florida linebacker A.J. Jones, South Carolina defensive end Cliff Matthews, LSU cornerback Patrick Peterson and LSU linebacker Kelvin Sheppard.
Spurrier, Gamecocks ready to take their shot
April, 14, 2010
4/14/10
9:00
AM ET
By
Chris Low | ESPN.com
John Korduner/Icon SMIThis season may be Steve Spurrier's best chance yet at bringing an SEC title to South Carolina.If anything, he’s gigging himself.
As Steve Spurrier enters his sixth season at South Carolina, he might not come right out and say it. Occasionally, his smoldering frustration might say it for him.
But he knows his window is closing on ever winning another SEC championship.
Some might say that window was never cracked in the first place at South Carolina, which has won more than eight games in a season only twice in school history.
Spurrier, even after seeing each of the past two seasons end embarrassingly in lackluster bowl losses, hasn’t given up hope that it can be done at South Carolina.
Just don’t tell him that this season is a now-or-never proposition, and the same thing goes for this supposedly being the Gamecocks’ best chance to make some real noise in the Eastern Division race since Spurrier arrived in 2005.
“I like to be optimistic. That’s the way I’ve always felt you had to coach,” Spurrier said. “You’re supposed to tell your players they’re very good and they’ve got a chance to have a big year.
“But our guys don’t react real well to that, if you know what I mean.”
In other words, don’t build the Gamecocks up too much. They’ve been down this road before -- and long before Spurrier was navigating his way down George Rogers Boulevard every morning to work.
Let’s face it. South Carolina’s football history reads like a Greek tragedy.
Every time the Gamecocks seem poised to break through, they end up breaking garnet and black-coated hearts instead.
“We’ve got a lot of traditions around here,” senior defensive end Cliff Matthews said. “It’s about time we started a winning tradition.”
COLUMBIA, S.C. -- One of the more underrated jobs in the SEC the past two seasons has been the one done by South Carolina assistant head coach for the defense Ellis Johnson and his staff.
The Gamecocks finished 15th nationally in total defense last season and 13th nationally in 2008. Alabama and Florida were the only other two SEC teams to finish in the top-15 each of the past two years.
Without question, one of the best moves South Carolina made this offseason was holding onto Johnson, who was offered a lucrative deal by Tennessee coach Derek Dooley to be the Vols’ defensive coordinator.
The Gamecocks acted quickly and extended Johnson’s contract to a four-year deal and increased his annual salary to $700,000.
“We got all that done in a day, and we needed to,” South Carolina coach Steve Spurrier said. “Coach Dooley was coming after him hard.”
Johnson, 58, is one of the straightest shooters in the college game. He’s got that old-school aura about him and doesn’t sugarcoat it for anybody, including his players.
So when he says he doesn’t really have a feel for his defense this spring, he means it.
For one, the Gamecocks have been a MASH unit. Defensive linemen Cliff Matthews and Travian Robertson have been sidelined while recovering from injuries, and defensive tackle Ladi Ajiboye has been limited.
Linebackers Rodney Paulk and Reggie Bowens have also been sidelined along with cornerback Chris Culliver.
“It’s good in that we’ve gotten a chance to see a lot of young kids, and that’s what the spring is about,” Johnson said. “But it’s hard to say where we are as a defensive unit right now. That might not be something that comes together until the second week of preseason practice.”
The Gamecocks return seven of 11 starters from last season, but one of the more disappointing things this spring for Johnson is that one of those younger defensive linemen hasn’t jumped out there and been more of a presence.
“With Matthews not being out there, we haven’t gotten any one-on-one pressure on the quarterback,” said Johnson, adding that sophomore end Devin Taylor and redshirt freshman Chaz Sutton still had a ways to go in that department.
Matthews was a second-team All-SEC performer last season and tied the departed Eric Norwood for the team lead in sacks with seven. He's one of the top three or four defensive ends in the league.
“You’ve got to have two of those guys at end, and we haven’t found that other light-the-match guy this spring,” Johnson said.
Johnson said junior Shaq Wilson is the most likely candidate to replace Norwood at outside linebacker, particularly if Paulk returns at full strength at middle linebacker. Paulk has suffered season-ending knee injuries each of the past two seasons.
The Gamecocks should be outstanding in the secondary, led by sophomore cornerback Stephon Gilmore, who started every game as a true freshman last season. He’s a future pro.
His high school teammate, DeVonte Holloman, is having a super spring at safety. But Holloman is a bit too heavy, and Johnson would like to see him lighter in the fall.
“I just don’t think you can play back there at 229 pounds,” Johnson said.
Junior Akeem Auguste has moved from cornerback to safety, but is being pushed by sophomore D.J. Swearinger, who’s been one of the Gamecocks’ breakthrough players this spring. Junior cornerback C.C. Whitlock has also had his moments this spring, although Johnson still wants to see him be more consistent.
“We’ve still got to prove it, but I think we’ll be better on defense than we were last year,” Gilmore said. “There were a lot of us feeling our way along last year because we hadn’t played. Everybody’s played now, and there are a lot of guys on this defense ready to leave their mark.”
The Gamecocks finished 15th nationally in total defense last season and 13th nationally in 2008. Alabama and Florida were the only other two SEC teams to finish in the top-15 each of the past two years.
[+] Enlarge
AP Photo/Mary Ann ChastainSouth Carolina defensive coordinator Ellis Johnson got a contract extension and a raise this offseason.
AP Photo/Mary Ann ChastainSouth Carolina defensive coordinator Ellis Johnson got a contract extension and a raise this offseason.The Gamecocks acted quickly and extended Johnson’s contract to a four-year deal and increased his annual salary to $700,000.
“We got all that done in a day, and we needed to,” South Carolina coach Steve Spurrier said. “Coach Dooley was coming after him hard.”
Johnson, 58, is one of the straightest shooters in the college game. He’s got that old-school aura about him and doesn’t sugarcoat it for anybody, including his players.
So when he says he doesn’t really have a feel for his defense this spring, he means it.
For one, the Gamecocks have been a MASH unit. Defensive linemen Cliff Matthews and Travian Robertson have been sidelined while recovering from injuries, and defensive tackle Ladi Ajiboye has been limited.
Linebackers Rodney Paulk and Reggie Bowens have also been sidelined along with cornerback Chris Culliver.
“It’s good in that we’ve gotten a chance to see a lot of young kids, and that’s what the spring is about,” Johnson said. “But it’s hard to say where we are as a defensive unit right now. That might not be something that comes together until the second week of preseason practice.”
The Gamecocks return seven of 11 starters from last season, but one of the more disappointing things this spring for Johnson is that one of those younger defensive linemen hasn’t jumped out there and been more of a presence.
“With Matthews not being out there, we haven’t gotten any one-on-one pressure on the quarterback,” said Johnson, adding that sophomore end Devin Taylor and redshirt freshman Chaz Sutton still had a ways to go in that department.
Matthews was a second-team All-SEC performer last season and tied the departed Eric Norwood for the team lead in sacks with seven. He's one of the top three or four defensive ends in the league.
“You’ve got to have two of those guys at end, and we haven’t found that other light-the-match guy this spring,” Johnson said.
Johnson said junior Shaq Wilson is the most likely candidate to replace Norwood at outside linebacker, particularly if Paulk returns at full strength at middle linebacker. Paulk has suffered season-ending knee injuries each of the past two seasons.
The Gamecocks should be outstanding in the secondary, led by sophomore cornerback Stephon Gilmore, who started every game as a true freshman last season. He’s a future pro.
His high school teammate, DeVonte Holloman, is having a super spring at safety. But Holloman is a bit too heavy, and Johnson would like to see him lighter in the fall.
“I just don’t think you can play back there at 229 pounds,” Johnson said.
Junior Akeem Auguste has moved from cornerback to safety, but is being pushed by sophomore D.J. Swearinger, who’s been one of the Gamecocks’ breakthrough players this spring. Junior cornerback C.C. Whitlock has also had his moments this spring, although Johnson still wants to see him be more consistent.
“We’ve still got to prove it, but I think we’ll be better on defense than we were last year,” Gilmore said. “There were a lot of us feeling our way along last year because we hadn’t played. Everybody’s played now, and there are a lot of guys on this defense ready to leave their mark.”
ABOUT THIS BLOG
Chris Low
Low joined ESPN.com in 2007 after 10 years with The (Nashville) Tennessean covering the University of Tennessee and SEC. The Rock Hill, S.C., native lives with his wife in Knoxville and has three sons.
Edward Aschoff
Aschoff joined ESPN.com in 2011 after spending four years covering the University of Florida for The Gainesville Sun. He grew up in Oxford, Miss., before attending UF, graduating with a B.S. in journalism.
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