South Carolina Looks to Regroup as Key Stars Return Ahead of Clemson Showdown

South Carolina entered the fall discussing bowl possibilities and the next step in Shane Beamer’s rebuilding plan. But as the season unfolded, those ambitions were replaced by a more introspective tone. The Gamecocks, battling inconsistency and costly late-game lapses, saw their campaign reach a low point with a 31–30 loss to Texas A&M — a collapse that eliminated realistic hopes of postseason play.

In the aftermath, Beamer acknowledged the emotional weight on his players while also revealing he has already begun conversations with several of them about returning in 2026. His message emphasized stability and connection, highlighting that many in the locker room “love being Gamecocks” and want to help steer the program’s reset rather than transfer out.

More immediately, the focus shifts to rivalry week and the annual Palmetto Bowl. A matchup with Clemson always carries stakes, but this year it presents South Carolina with a chance to restore pride and carry momentum into the offseason.

Ahead of that game, the Gamecocks received encouraging news: two of their most important players — receiver Nyck Harbor and edge rusher Dylan Stewart — are expected back after being held out of last week’s tune-up for precautionary reasons.

1. Players Rallying Around Beamer’s Vision

Beamer’s comments following the loss to Texas A&M underscored a shift in the program’s internal messaging. Instead of dwelling on missed bowl opportunities, he and his staff have started laying the groundwork for next season, speaking with players about how they envision their roles in 2026. The early conversations reflect a core group that, despite frustrations, remains committed to the program. Beamer noted that numerous players have expressed genuine enthusiasm about staying in Columbia and contributing to a fresh start next year. He has framed the moment not as an ending but as the beginning of a crucial reset. This approach aligns with Beamer’s broader strategy: maintain continuity, build trust, and use adversity as motivation. South Carolina’s roster is young in key spots, and continuity may be one of the program’s biggest advantages heading into the offseason. Still, the immediate challenge remains competing with intensity as the current year winds down. Beamer is asking his team to channel disappointment into focus — particularly with Clemson looming.

2. Harbor and Stewart Expected Back for Clemson Clash

South Carolina deliberately kept Nyck Harbor and Dylan Stewart out of the win over Coastal Carolina, choosing recovery over risk. Harbor had been working through a hamstring issue, while Stewart was managing his own lingering concerns. Both were held out as a precaution with the rivalry matchup in mind. Beamer confirmed after the game that both players are trending toward full availability. He noted that Harbor had recently returned to full-speed running in workouts and is “hopeful” to be cleared for Saturday. Stewart’s recovery also appears on track, giving the Gamecocks a major boost on the defensive edge. Harbor’s return would instantly lift the offense. He was one of the few bright spots in the loss to Texas A&M, posting three catches for 102 yards and an 80-yard touchdown. His speed and size create matchup problems that Clemson’s secondary will need to prepare for. Stewart’s presence is equally significant on defense. Clemson will test South Carolina’s front for four quarters, and Stewart provides a burst off the edge the Gamecocks have lacked when he’s been sidelined.

3. Tunnel Incident and a Focus on Moving Forward

Harbor’s visibility has not been limited to explosive plays. In the Texas A&M game, a tunnel incident drew attention when a Texas state trooper appeared to bump Harbor and another South Carolina player before gesturing back at them. The moment quickly circulated on broadcasts and social media. Beamer said he had not seen the confrontation live but praised Texas A&M’s response. The school swiftly removed the officer from his game-day duties, a move Beamer called appropriate and “first-class.” He publicly thanked the Aggies for their handling of the situation. The episode, though brief, added to an already emotional week for the Gamecocks. But Beamer stressed that the program’s focus remains on Clemson, player health, and long-term stability rather than outside distractions. With Harbor and Stewart trending toward full strength and a coaching staff determined to keep its core intact for 2026, South Carolina enters the Palmetto Bowl looking to convert hard lessons into a foundation for the future.