*Written by student assistant Kelly McAlindin
Following practice Wednesday night, coaches and players offered comments on the confidence in their play for Saturday's game and not overlooking Wofford's ability.
As they approach the last home game of the season, the Gamecocks have revived their tenacity that had been damaged on their tough stretch on the road against LSU and Florida. When asked about the reliability of his starting offensive line, Coach Shawn Elliott said it is great to have the same five guys playing every game, "We've settled into a groove where we feel like we are capable of going out there and putting forth a good effort."
The offense as a whole has stepped up to make some game-changing plays. Coaches and players have especially taken notice of Bruce Ellington's improvements at wide receiver and believe in his ability to be a leader and make plays.
"It's good to have him on the field, it's good to have the ball in his hands, and it's good that he's getting his opportunities, " noted Steve Spurrier Jr.
Ellington's fellow wide receiver Ace Sanders also commented on Bruce's improved play and the impact it has had on the Carolina offense, "It's always a great thing when you have [more than one person] out there that you believe in and that can make play."
When asked about how it feels to be a key player for the Gamecocks, Ellington believes he has been put in great situations by his teammates and appreciates his opportunities, "It builds my confidence to be able to go out there and catch the ball."
When asked about the improved level of leadership among the players, Spurrier Jr. explained how proud he is to see the top players as role models for the younger players, "You want your best players to be your best leaders because everyone emulates those guys and we've had a strong core of players who have been great."
The confidence the Gamecocks have in their level of play will favor them in Saturday's game but they cannot afford to overlook Wofford as a tough opponent. With an undefeated home record on the line, they must take the game as seriously as they would for any other. When asked about his expectations for Saturday, Coach Elliott said he has been watching Wofford for a long time and they are not a team to be taken lightly, "I don't take this team for granted, I know exactly what they are capable of, and we have to play our best to beat them."
Check out more videos of coaches' and players' post-practice interviews here and check back to GamecocksOnline.com tonight for thoughts from Defensive Coordinator Lorenzo Ward following Thursday's practice.
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