Spurrier looks for Gamecocks to finish strong

COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — Steve Spurrier plans to return to South Carolina next season, although his focus is on the team’s remaining schedule and the hope his players can shake off their disheartening season for a strong finish.

Spurrier sent the Gamecocks (4-5, 2-5 Southeastern Conference) off in the bye week, drawing inspiration from singer Taylor Swift’s latest hit, “Shake It Off.”

There’s little else left for South Carolina to try after Saturday’s stunning, 45-42 overtime loss to Tennessee — the third time in its last four SEC games it led by double-digits in the fourth quarter yet collapsed.

The Gamecocks’ defense, among the best in the SEC the past three seasons, is last in the league in yards allowed and points given up.