Steve Spurrier promised changes to the offense after a lackluster effort in a 16-13 loss to Auburn. It didn't take long for the Gamecocks head coach to make a major move. Connor Shaw will get the start for USC this Saturday against Kentucky. Stephen Garcia goes to the bench following a second straight lackluster performance. Garcia had just nine completions and two interceptions on Saturday against Auburn.
“This is his game, it’s his opportunity to go play and we think he’s ready,” said Coach Spurrier following Monday night's practice. “We’re going to find out Saturday. Connor had a good practice tonight and, as most everyone knows, our quarterback play has not been as good as we hoped. We’ve got to do something. Maybe some other positions we’re looking at also. We’re looking forward to the game against Kentucky. I just ask all the Gamecock fans to give Connor your support the same way you have all the others players here. I think he’s ready to play well. It wasn’t that hard a call. At some point we have to do something to shake up this offense and this is the first step. We’ll see how it goes. It’s Connor’s game. Unless he gets hurt, this is his game.”
“It’s an opportunity I’m willing to take advantage of,” said Shaw. “I think I’m ready to play. I’m excited and we’ll see how it goes this Saturday. I feel confident and I feel like I’m ready to play.”
Shaw started the 2011 opener against East Carolina, but was replaced in the second quarter by Garcia after struggling. Garcia went on to get the Gamecocks a 56-37 win against the Pirates.
