No. 21 South Carolina looks to move forward

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — Steve Spurrier sounds less certain about No. 21 South Carolina’s potential for big things than he did a few weeks ago.

Then again, a performance like the Gamecocks’ 52-28 embarrassing loss at home against Texas A&M might shake even the staunchest believer’s faith. South Carolina, 0-1 for the first time since 1999, tries to get back on track Saturday night against East Carolina.

While the Gamecocks defeated the Pirates handily, 48-10, the last time these teams met two years ago, Spurrier’s not counting on anything after what he witnessed last week.

South Carolina’s typically strong defense was a sieve, allowing a program record 680 yards to the Aggies. East Carolina (1-0) runs a similar offense to Texas A&M, led by standout quarterback Shane Carden and record-setting receiver Justin Hardy.