Why Will Muschamp didn’t bring a defensive player to media days

A few eyebrows raised when South Carolina coach Will Muschamp’s three players coming to SEC Media Days all came from the offensive side of the ball.

On Thursday, the coach explained with a pair of reasons, one maybe a bit more serious than the other.

“Unfortunately there was some class conflicts and test conflicts and some things that we just couldn't work out,” Muschamp said. “We certainly have some guys that were deserving to be here.”

USC is returning around 12 defenders in the two-deep rotation from 2016, and with Skai Moore returning from injury, seven seniors project to start on defense.

The Gamecocks brought quarterback Jake Bentley, wide receiver Deebo Samuel and tight end Hayden Hurst.

Of course, Muschamp also had to get in one joke.

“The last time we brought our defensive guys to Birmingham, it didn't go real good,” Muschamp said. “We gave up a bunch of points and a bunch of yards. So I didn't know if they'd want to come, so I didn't ask them.”

The Gamecocks gave up 469 yards and 46 points in a Birmingham Bowl loss to South Florida.

This story was originally published July 13, 2017 at 12:51 PM.