Shane Beamer updates South Carolina’s injuries heading into Week 1
South Carolina coach Shane Beamer is optimistic a pair of injured Gamecock players can suit up in next week’s season opener against Georgia State.
Running back Christian Beal-Smith and punter Kai Kroeger are expected to play when the Panthers come to town, Beamer said on his weekly radio show Thursday night.
“Everybody should be ready to go — that includes Kai Kroeger and Christian Beal-Smith,” he said. “They’ve been out here for a while, but optimistic they’ll be good to go.
Beal-Smith was spotted on a scooter and in a walking-boot during the final open practice of call camp that was open to reporters last week. He came to South Carolina over following a standout career at Wake Forest, where he led the Demon Deacons in rushing each of the last two seasons.
Kroeger, South Carolina’s starting punter, has been sidelined for the bulk of fall camp after suffering a foot injury before the preseason began while back home in the Chicago area.
Beamer also suggested receiver Corey Rucker could miss some time as he battles back from an undisclosed injury. Rucker transferred to USC after two prolific years at Arkansas State, but has been out “for a few weeks,” per Beamer.
“He could still play,” Beamer said. “But he’s probably the one we’re most concerned about right now as far as being 100 percent for next Saturday night.”
South Carolina opens welcomes Georgia State to Columbia to kick off Year 2 under Beamer. The Panthers are coached by former Steve Spurrier assistant Shawn Elliott, who’s in his sixth year with the program.
One-time USC defensive back Jamyest Williams also has evolved into a key cog in Georgia State’s two-headed rushing attack along with Tucker Gregg. Williams transitioned to running back after transferring to Georgia State in December 2019.
This story was originally published August 25, 2022 at 6:20 PM.
