Lineman Batchelor leaves Gamecocks

USC starting offensive lineman Heath Batchelor has left the team, sources said late Thursday night.

Batchelor, who started three games at left guard, told friends that football was not enjoyable anymore, according to a source close to the player.

Attempts to reach Batchelor on Thursday night were unsuccessful.

Batchelor had a tough game last week against Kentucky, allowing Wildcats defensive tackle Corey Peters to get past him for a couple of sacks.

USC coach Steve Spurrier said earlier Thursday that tackle Jarriel King would start at left guard Saturday at Alabama. Spurrier was not asked about Batchelor.

Batchelor, who started three games each of the past three seasons, left the team midway through the 2008 season due to personal problems. He later took a medical withdraw and returned home to Alabama.

He re-enrolled in June after agreeing to comply with a number of university-imposed requirements.

This story was originally published October 16, 2009 at 12:00 AM with the headline "Lineman Batchelor leaves Gamecocks."