Gamecocks Dominate in Heat | Columbia News

South Carolina made a scorching statement in their 2026 opener, dismantling Kent State 57-0 under brutal 95-degree heat that pushed the fourth quarter to just 10 minutes. Led by new offensive coordinator Kendal Briles, the Gamecocks exploded for 645 total yards—their most since beating Tennessee in 2022—while Coach Shane Beamer praised his team’s poise and execution despite the punishing conditions. Fans braved the sweltering field, some seeking shade or leaving early, while AD handed out water to students. Beamer commended both the crowd and medical staff, declaring this level of offensive firepower now the expected standard every week. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/eb427fed791ee001