South Carolina Gamecocks recently made headlines with the announcement of Mike Shula as their new offensive coordinator. Head coach Shane Beamer and Shula addressed the media on December 19, 2024, where they shared their thoughts on the transition. Beamer expressed his congratulations to the men’s basketball team, particularly for their impressive win over Clemson. He also mentioned how December has been a particularly hectic month for the team but in a positive way, with plenty of excitement surrounding Gamecock football.
It was a significant achievement for South Carolina to finalize all the assistant coaching contract extensions before the bowl game. Head coach Shane Beamer worked closely with Ray Tanner to ensure the assistants received the recognition they deserved. Beamer acknowledged the hard work that Tanner put in, as well as the efforts of the Board of Trustees and the university in supporting the coaching staff.
Beamer highlighted how the commitment of his coaching staff speaks volumes, citing instances where coaches turned down opportunities at other Power 5 schools—one even rejecting a head coaching job. This, he emphasized, reflects the dedication and loyalty of the men on his team.
Beamer also shared that players were given some time off during exam week, but soon returned to practice following graduation. They are now preparing for the bowl game in Orlando, with practices set for the entire weekend, followed by a mock game week. Beamer expressed excitement about the team’s hunger and readiness for the upcoming challenge.
As for the game itself, Beamer noted that they are still deciding who will call the plays during the bowl game. While Dowell Loggains is focused on his new role at Appalachian State, Mike Shula has been deeply involved in preparations, ensuring the team is ready for the big game.
Shula, a well-known figure in the world of college football, brings a wealth of experience to the position, and both coaches are optimistic about his role in shaping the future of South Carolina’s offense. Despite the busy nature of the season, the mood within the Gamecock program is one of optimism, with both the football and basketball teams generating excitement for the school’s sports community.
Coach Beamer mentioned that he doesn’t expect Kyle Kennard to play in the bowl game, as Kennard recently declared for the NFL Draft. He also noted that there’s one other player still deciding on whether to participate, but aside from that, it sounds like the rest of the team is fully committed to playing in the Citrus Bowl.
Coach Beamer shared that many of the incoming freshmen are already on campus and will officially join the team in January. Some of these players, including Caleb Williams, Cutter Woods, and a group of receivers, have had the opportunity to practice with the team, giving them a head start in their development.
Reflecting on the previous season, Beamer emphasized that despite finishing 5-7, he always believed the team was close to turning things around. The leadership and maturity shown by several players who decided to return for another year were crucial to the team’s progress. Beamer believes that teams with veteran players who stick around have a strong chance of success. While he wasn’t certain all his key veterans would return at first, he knew that with so many returning pieces, the team had the potential to be quite competitive. However, he acknowledged the need to fill a leadership gap heading into 2025.
On the topic of hiring Mike Shula as offensive coordinator, Beamer was enthusiastic about the decision, believing Shula’s extensive experience—both in college football and the NFL—made him an ideal fit. Beamer described bringing Shula onto the staff as a “home run,” and noted that Shula exceeded all expectations. His positive influence within the program has been widely felt, with everyone in the building praising him. Beamer made it clear that there was never any other candidate considered for the offensive coordinator role; Shula was the clear choice from the beginning.
Coach Beamer stressed that the continuity within the program was crucial, especially with Mike Shula, who already knew the offense and had worked with quarterback LaNorris Sellers. Beamer felt it was important to avoid bringing in a new coordinator and starting over with a new offensive system at this point. He believed that sticking with Shula would be the best path forward for the team.
Beamer also mentioned that Robby Ashford is practicing with the team and will remain for the bowl game, even though he entered the transfer portal. This decision reflects a shift in Beamer’s approach. Ashford has expressed his desire to be the starting quarterback, which Beamer understands, but also recognizes that Sellers is the future of the position. After discussing his decision with Beamer, Ashford decided to enter the portal, but Beamer met with the team’s leaders, who unanimously agreed that Ashford should finish the season with the Gamecocks in the right way.
With the high school signing day already behind them, Beamer noted that December has been less chaotic than in previous years. The early signing period has shifted things, so coaches aren’t traveling as much for recruiting and instead are focusing on matters from their offices. Though the workload remains heavy, Beamer described the shift as a positive change.
Finally, Beamer shared his admiration for Shula, noting that like him, Shula grew up around football and has an extensive background in the game. As a coach’s son who played in the SEC, Shula’s experience is something Beamer values. He often asks Shula about his time playing in the SEC, having always respected his knowledge and experience in the sport.
