Gamecock tailback returns to practice, other observations from latest workout
The South Carolina football team hit the field again Thursday morning with spring practice starting to wind down.
It was USC’s 11th spring practice, and media members were allowed to watch the first six periods of practice, which was held at the indoor facility because of wet field conditions.
Here is a look at what we saw.
▪ Running back JuJu McDowell and defensive back Tyrese Ross were back and participating at practice. McDowell worked with the running backs and also worked with special teams returning kicks. USC coach Shane Beamer said McDowell missed Saturday’s scrimmage. Ross, who transferred from Washington State last year, also missed the scrimmage but was fully dressed at practice.
▪ In addition to McDowell, Lovasea Carroll and MarShawn Lloyd took reps returning kicks. Lloyd also did a standing backflip during warmups.
▪ Several Gamecocks miss practice because of injuries, including tight ends Jaheim Bell and EJ Jenkins. Bell has missed most of spring practice, but Beamer said Tuesday that a return is possible next week before the spring game. Joey Hunter also missed practice and has yet to go this spring. Receiver Dakereon Joyner also didn’t practice Thursday for an unknown reason.
▪ With lack of healthy bodies at tight end, the Gamecocks have been using a variety of players at the position. On Thursday, receiver Chad Terrell continued to work with the tight ends.
▪ Several recruits attended Thursday’s practice, including West Florence’s Kelvin Hunter, who was offered by the Gamecocks during the spring. Hunter is considered the No. 6 prospect in South Carolina for the Class of 2024 by 247Sports.
▪ South Carolina is set to hold a second scrimmage this Saturday. The spring game is next Saturday, at 7 p.m. April 16.
