COLUMBIA, S.C. — South Carolina head football coach Shane Beamer will kick off his third season at the helm of the Gamecock program Saturday night when the USC faces North Carolina in the Duke's Mayo Classic at Bank of America Stadium.
This is a rematch of the 2021 Duke's Mayo Bowl which was won by South Carolina 38-21 and included Beamer taking a Duke's Mayo Bowl bath.
When Beamer began his coaching career, he didn't envision that would be a part of his obligations. What drew Beamer into the coaching profession was the chance to compete whether on game day, on the recruiting trail, or watching players compete in practice.
Having a legendary father in the profession certainly played a major role in the son joining in the family business. Shane's father Frank remains a legendary figure in Blacksburg after achieving Hall of Fame success at Virginia Tech. The younger Beamer is forging his own path as a head coach in Columbia and he will take a 15-11 record into Saturday night's 2023 season opener.
The Gamecocks have the NCAA's toughest strength of schedule but are coming into their first game a 2.5-point underdog. And while South Carolina is currently unranked, North Carolina is ranked No. 20 in the AP Poll.