South Carolina in QB controversy after 34-0 shutout of NC State
Aug 29th, 2008 • Football
It was the “Tail of Two Quarterbacks” in Columbia, SC on Thursday. Starting Quarterback Tommy Beecher went 12 for 22 passing with 4 interceptions and failed to lead a drive for a touchdown in 3 quarters of work (not counting the 3rd Quarter drive that started from the 9 and consisted of 4 consecutive hand offs). While backup Sophomore Quarterback Chris Smelley went 5 for 5 passing with touchdowns (0 interceptions) and lead 3 touchdown drives during his quarter of work.
To say South Carolina Head Coach Steve Spurrier has some thinking to do would be an understatement. After standing behind Beecher for the Spring and Summer despite criticisms, Spurrier may have to bench his darling. “Chris Smelley did come in and play very well. We’ll have to watch the tape, analyze it to see what in the world happened to Tommy,” Spurrier said of the situation.
While the South Carolina offense struggled during the 1st Half; 3 interceptions, 3 punts, and 3 points (last minute field goal), the South Carolina defense flurished causing 3 first half turnovers (including a turnover on downs) and keeping the Wolfpack scoreless. The Gamecock defense outdid themselves in the Second Half, forcing 2 interceptions and keeping the North Carolina State offense out of South Carolina’s side of the field the entire 2nd Half.
Senior South Carolina Running Back Mike Davis had a good showing, producing 101 yards on 14 carries and a touchdown.