Beamer not sure Dakereon Joyner will play vs. Clemson. USC tailback has other ideas
Officially, sixth-year running back Dakereon Joyner remains questionable for this week, according to South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer.
Unofficially?
“DK has assured us he’s playing,” Beamer said Tuesday at his weekly press conference. “Knowing him I don’t doubt him. He was out there (practicing) today in a limited role.”
Joyner did not play against Vanderbilt and Kentucky with a lower body injury he sustained against Jacksonville State two weeks ago.
He was not in a boot or using a scooter Monday when participating in a Thanksgiving charity event he sponsors.
He’s one of 21 players set to walk for Senior Day on Saturday against Clemson, with this being his final year of eligibility. He’s played in every game this season prior to his injury, with 91 rushing yards and four touchdowns.
South Carolina is already without Juju McDowell, who’s season ended against Vanderbilt with a broken collarbone. If Joyner is out, this would be the second week where USC plays with only two scholarship running backs.
Also questionable to play this week: offensive linemen Trai Jones, Cason Henry and Jaxon Hughes. Wide receiver Antwane “Juice” Wells is not expected to play, Beamer said.
“I wouldn’t count on it,” Beamer said of Wells. “If Juice came to me after this press conference and said he wanted to play it wouldn’t shock me, but I’m not counting on that.”
The Gamecocks host Clemson at 7:30 p.m. Saturday. The game will be televised on SEC Network.
This story was originally published November 21, 2023 at 1:57 PM.
