Two Gamecocks impact players ‘questionable’ for Week 2 contest at Arkansas
South Carolina may be down a pair of starters in Week 2.
Safety R.J. Roderick and left tackle Jakai Moore are both “questionable” for next week’s trip to Arkansas, head coach Shane Beamer said on his weekly teleconference with local reporters Sunday night.
Moore, who left Saturday’s 35-14 season-opening win over Georgia State, could’ve come back into the game, per Beamer, but his injury could be more significant than initially perceived.
“I’d say he’s questionable for this week,” Beamer said.
Roderick left the contest holding his right arm on just the seventh play from scrimmage and did not return. Beamer noted South Carolina would know more about his status on Monday, also characterizing him as “questionable” for the Arkansas game.
The Summerville product is in his fifth year — his fourth as a starter — with the Gamecocks after deciding to return for one last season in Columbia. Roderick finished the 2021 campaign with 64 tackles and two forced fumbles.
With Roderick possibly missing some time, freshman Nick Emmanwori would likely slide into the starting spot. Emmanwori received rave reviews throughout fall camp for his athleticism and ability on the back end of the South Carolina defense, before a standout debut on Saturday.
The Irmo native stopped Georgia State running back Tucker Gregg on a fourth-down run to force a turnover on his first play in Saturday’s contest. Emmanwori finished the day with three tackles and one pass breakup.
Beamer also updated the statuses of offensive lineman Jaylen Nichols, receiver Dakereon Joyner and defensive back Darius Rush postgame Saturday. All three are expected to be fine, Beamer said at the time.
South Carolina was without running back Christian Beal-Smith and receiver Corey Rucker during the Georgia State win. ESPN’s Courtney Lyle said on Saturday’s broadcast Beal-Smith’s injury “got worse” and that he was “extremely doubtful” after not practicing all week.
Beamer noted there’s a hope Beal-Smith could return for the Arkansas game, though that will depend on his work during practice this week.
Rucker was declared “out” by Beamer on his Thursday night radio show as he works back from a foot injury. Rucker was spotted on crutches and with a boot on his left foot pregame.
This story was originally published September 4, 2022 at 7:31 PM.
