Game of My Life: South Carolina Gamecocks

Game of My Life South Carolina Gamecocks: Memorable Stories of Gamecock Football

by Rick Scoppe

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5289 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	241 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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The Most Unforgettable Game in Carolina Football History

On a crisp November afternoon in 2012, the South Carolina Gamecocks pulled off one of the most stunning upsets in college football history. Facing the top-ranked Tennessee Volunteers, the Gamecocks were massive underdogs. But in a game that would forever be etched into the annals of Carolina football lore, South Carolina rallied from a 14-point deficit to defeat Tennessee 38-35.

The victory was a signature moment for the Gamecocks program, which had been struggling in recent years. It was also a defining moment for head coach Steve Spurrier, who had been brought in to turn around the program and had quickly established South Carolina as a force to be reckoned with in the Southeastern Conference (SEC).

The Setting

The scene was set for an epic showdown at Williams-Brice Stadium in Columbia, South Carolina. The Gamecocks entered the game with a 7-3 record, while the Volunteers were 9-0 and ranked No. 1 in the country. Tennessee was led by quarterback Tyler Bray, who was one of the most prolific passers in the SEC. South Carolina, on the other hand, was led by a young quarterback named Connor Shaw and a talented running back named Marcus Lattimore.

The Game

The game started out as expected, with Tennessee taking an early lead. The Volunteers scored on their first two possessions, building a 14-0 advantage. But the Gamecocks refused to go away. They answered back with a touchdown of their own, and then forced a Tennessee punt.

With the ball back in their hands, the Gamecocks marched down the field and scored another touchdown to tie the game at 14-14. The teams traded touchdowns again before halftime, and South Carolina went into the break trailing by just 21-20.

In the second half, the Gamecocks continued to chip away at the Tennessee lead. They scored a field goal on their first possession, and then forced a Tennessee fumble. Shaw then led the Gamecocks on a 10-play, 80-yard drive that culminated in a touchdown pass to wide receiver Bruce Ellington.

With the Gamecocks now leading 30-21, Tennessee fought back. Bray threw a touchdown pass to wide receiver Cordarrelle Patterson to cut the lead to 30-28. But South Carolina wasn't finished. They responded with a touchdown of their own, and then forced Tennessee to punt.

With just over two minutes remaining in the game, Tennessee had one last chance to tie or win the game. But Clowney sacked Bray on fourth down, and the Gamecocks held on for the 38-35 victory.

The Aftermath

The victory was a watershed moment for the Gamecocks program. It was the first time that South Carolina had defeated a No. 1-ranked team since 1984. It also gave the Gamecocks a chance to win the SEC East Division and reach the SEC Championship Game.

The Gamecocks finished the season with a 11-2 record and a No. 9 ranking in the final AP poll. They defeated Michigan in the Outback Bowl, and Spurrier was named the SEC Coach of the Year.

The Game of My Life will forever be remembered as one of the greatest games in South Carolina football history. It was a game that had everything: drama, excitement, and a stunning upset. It was a game that will be talked about for years to come.

The Legacy

The Game of My Life had a lasting impact on the South Carolina football program. It gave the Gamecocks a sense of belief that they could compete with anyone in the country. It also helped to establish Spurrier as one of the best coaches in college football.

In the years since the Game of My Life, the Gamecocks have continued to be a force in the SEC. They have won the SEC East Division three times and reached the SEC Championship Game twice. They have also played in two New Year's Six bowls and finished in the top 10 of the final AP poll five times.

The Game of My Life was a turning point in South Carolina football history. It was a game that helped to raise the profile of the program and establish it as a perennial contender in the SEC.

Game of My Life South Carolina Gamecocks: Memorable Stories of Gamecock Football

by Rick Scoppe

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5289 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	241 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE