Connor Shaw takes over as the Gamecock starting quarterback.
Gamecock defensive star Melvin Ingram out with sprained foot.By: Samone Kennedy
South Carolina Head Coach Steve Spurrier has named Conner Shaw as his starting quarterback Saturday's game against Kentucky. Fans and coaches have been critical of senior quarterback Stephen Garcia's erratic passing and frantic offense.
Spurrier says he believes Shaw can give the team the spark it desperately needs.
"We feel like Conner deserves a shot and we're going to see if he can perform at a higher level and get our offense going a bit," says Spurrier.
"I feel confident. I feel ready to play. Like I said, we will see how it goes this Saturday," says Shaw.
Spurrier said Garcia anticipated the switch and is taking it well.
At Wednesday night's practice teammates rallied around Shaw and said they are confident in his ability to lead them.
"Apparently, Coach Spurrier put him back there because he has faith in him. If he has faith in him, then the whole team feels the same way", says offensive lineman, Terrence Campbell.
All coaches have agreed, they need to boost their intensity as well, if the team is going finish as strongly as people hope.
The change may be much needed but the injury that has pronged two-time national player of the week, Melvin Ingram, is not. The Gamecock's starting defensive back sprained his foot and was unable to practice this week.
Spurrier is unsure who would start in Ingram's spot.
The Gamecocks face off against the Kentucky Wildcats at Kentucky this Saturday at 12:20pm.
