By: Mason Snyder
The Gamecocks made history before a crowd of about 75,000, when they upset the number four ranked Ole Miss Rebels Thursday night. The game was a defensive struggle, but the Gamecocks managed to save a 16-10 victory with a last minute defensive stand.
"We have a [explitive] good defense," Quarterback Steven Garcia said.
The Gamecocks managed only three field goals after being within 10 yards of the end zone. But, the Gamecock defense held the Rebels to a single field goal in three quarters. By the third quarter USC led 9-3.
The Rebels scored in what Gamecock fans feared was to be their downfall, but the Gamecocks defense held them back to ensure a victory.
The leadership of linemen Cliff Matthews and Eric Norwood was the difference maker.
Matthews made a huge play when he sacked the Rebels QB Jevan Snead on their 30 and recovered the football.
Senior Linebacker Eric Norwood had 2 sacks to become USC's all-time sack leader, with 27. Norwood also now ranks eighth in the SEC in all-time sacks.
"It means a lot," Norwood said. "It's something I've been working towards, not just for the individual record, but being a good player."
Gamecock QB Steven Garcia was able to move South Carolina, and finally score on a two yard pass to Patrick DiMarco later in the third quarter. This took the score to 16-3.
The Rebels had no luck on their final possession, only gaining 40 yards in their final attemps. On fourth down, Gamecocks defenders batted down a would-be-first-down pass attempt. After that the Gamecocks took a knee, and ran out the clock.
This was the Gamecocks first victory over a top 5 ranked team at Williams-Brice Stadium in history.
"It's tough to beat a team like that," Garcia said. "But our defense played unbelievable and brought us out in the end."
Stephen Garcia's 69 yard pass to Moe Brown also made history, it was the longest of both of their careers.
