Quick-hitters: Rivalry week is here
Several South Carolina players spoke with the media Saturday in preparation for the Gamecocks' trip to Clemson this weekend.
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Clemson week quick-hitters:
** South Carolina players say that the team and staff haven't put any particular extra emphasis on the game this week (approach every game the same), but that they're well aware of how important it is. Muschamp has, however, had a motto all season long: "Beat the East; Win the state." Out-of-state players say they learn very quickly upon arriving in Columbia just how important this game is.
** Linebacker Bryson Allen-Williams says that Deshaun Watson is the best quarterback he's faced. There have been some good others ones too, but Watson is probably the best because he can beat you with his arm and his legs. You have to try to make him one-dimensional.
** Both tight end Hayden Hurst and offensive lineman Zack Bailey mentioned how physical Clemson is up front. They move around a lot and blitz a lot too.
** Several players said that they don't think about the fact that Clemson is a possible College Football Playoff team or the spoiler role -- they're just worried about themselves and playing the best they can.
** AJ Turner said that Tuesday is a day each week in practice where pass protection is emphasized for the backs. It's extra important this week because Clemson blitzes a lot.
** South Carolina has been playing "Tiger Rag" at times in practice this week.
** Several players said the experience at Florida a couple of weeks ago should help the younger players in preparing to go on the road in the environment they'll face Saturday at Clemson.
** Some of the players who live close to USC will go home for Thanksgiving Thursday, but any player who doesn't go home will have the chance to enjoy it in Columbia.
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