Gamecocks Face Kent State in Scorching Opener | Columbia News

South Carolina Gamecocks kick off their 2026 season Saturday against Kent State in a scorching 98-degree showdown at Williams-Brice, aiming for their sixth straight home opener win under Coach Shane Beamer. ESPN projects a 98.1% chance of victory as the Tigers open as 33-point favorites — and that number’s only growing. But key losses loom: star tackle Jacarrius Peak (knee) and edge rusher Dylan Stewart (back) sit out. New OC Kendal Briles will debut his offense, spotlighting QB LaNorris Sellers and WR Nyck Harbor, while a revamped line faces early tests. Defense returns strong with a loaded front seven. Fans? Stay hydrated — “real feel” temps hit 112. 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/dd4417ec876216a1