Have you ever heard the phrase or used the phrase “Finish what you Start”? This particular article is to give credit to a few players on the Gamecocks and the Gamecocks player’s leadership, whom I think did a fantastic job of showing a particular kind of commitment, competition, and comradery that displays the fantastic culture that is happening within the Gamecock Football program under Beamer.
Let’s start with QB2, Robby Ashford, who had a tumultuous and roller coast like start to his career for the Auburn Tigers. Robby found himself completing less than 50% of his passes going 137/277 for 1,758 yards, 9 TD’s and 9 interceptions, but did make up for it on the ground with 199 carries for 937 yards and 12 TD’s. After transferring to South Carolina though, what I want to point out is that he is in the transfer portal again. However, his teammates and team leaders voted to let him stay, practice and play in the Citrus Bowl for the Gamecocks. This is not the normal for many players who are in his position. If this doesn’t speak to the type of competitor and character, he possesses I don’t know what does.
Secondly, I present exhibit B known as Nick Emmanwori. Nick is a homegrown Gamecock who has gained some tremendous accolades while suiting up for the Garnet and Black. Over his 3-year career, Nick has amassed 239 tackles, 11 passes defended, 6 interceptions with 2 returned for a touchdown. He understands that winning 10 games is a huge deal in South Carolina football history and while, he may have played himself into a first or second round draft pick he also is opting into playing the Citrus Bowl. Again, this speaks to the type of culture and competition that is being developed by Shane Beamer in Columbia, SC.
Lastly, I would like to present Demetrius Knight, Jr. who flat out said that he didn’t want his kids being able to use him not playing in a bowl game as an excuse. Finish what you start is the mantra, and it rings truer than it ever has in Columbia, SC. Again, kudos to all of the Gamecocks who are finishing what they start, and I cannot wait to watch this Citrus Bowl against Illinois in a few days.
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