South Carolina Upsets No. 10 Texas A&M 44-20: LaNorris Sellers Shines

South Carolina Upsets No. 10 Texas A&M 44-20

LaNorris Sellers delivered an impressive performance as South Carolina upset No. 10 Texas A&M 44-20 on Saturday night. Sellers ran for 106 yards and threw for 244 yards, leading the Gamecocks (5-3, 3-3) to a significant victory against a playoff contender. This win was particularly noteworthy as South Carolina had previously come close to defeating top teams like LSU and Alabama but had not managed to secure a win until now.

The Gamecocks showcased a powerful rushing attack, with senior transfer Raheim Sanders contributing 144 yards and two touchdowns. Sellers added two passing touchdowns and another rushing score, highlighting his growth as a freshman quarterback. Coach Shane Beamer expressed pride in Sellers' development, noting his inexperience during earlier losses and emphasizing the potential for improvement moving forward.

Texas A&M struggled to contain South Carolina's offense, falling behind early before managing to tie the game before halftime. However, the Gamecocks' defense stepped up when it mattered most, stopping the Aggies on two crucial fourth-and-1 attempts and forcing turnovers, including an interception and a fumble recovery in the fourth quarter. Marcel Reed, filling in for the injured Conner Weigman, completed 18 of 28 passes for 206 yards but faced challenges against South Carolina’s chaotic defensive schemes.

The loss was a significant setback for Texas A&M's hopes for an SEC title, although they remain in contention with several other teams holding one conference loss. Coach Mike Elko acknowledged the need for his defense to improve tackling techniques, particularly when facing powerful runners like Sellers and Sanders, as they failed to make key stops throughout the game.

Looking ahead, Texas A&M will host New Mexico State on November 16, while South Carolina will travel to face Vanderbilt next Saturday. This victory not only boosts South Carolina’s confidence but also positions them to potentially secure a bowl game, with one more win needed to make that happen.

South Carolina Upsets No. 10 Texas A&M 44-20: LaNorris Sellers Shines