Episode Details

How good can LaNorris Sellers and South Carolina football actually be in 2026? Brooks Austin of The Film Guy Network joins Locked On Gamecocks to break down Sellers’ film, his fit in Kendal Briles’ offense and why the Gamecocks could have a much higher ceiling than people realize.

On today’s episode of Locked On Gamecocks, Chris Marler is joined by Brooks Austin to take a deep dive into the biggest questions surrounding Shane Beamer’s team entering the 2026 college football season.

It starts with LaNorris Sellers. After a disappointing 2025 season for South Carolina’s offense, why should Gamecock fans believe this year could be different? Brooks explains what he has seen on Sellers’ film, the development he has made mechanically and why pairing his dual-threat ability with Kendal Briles could finally unlock the version of Sellers everyone expected to see.

Could Sellers throw for 3,200 yards, add another 600 yards rushing and approach 40 total touchdowns? Brooks explains why that type of production is within reach — and why Sellers’ NFL Draft hype isn’t as crazy as some national analysts believe.

The guys also discuss South Carolina’s offensive line, the importance of Briles bringing his system to Columbia, the Gamecocks’ improved collection of weapons and why getting the football out of Sellers’ hands quicker could make a massive difference.

And what about the other side of the ball?

Brooks believes South Carolina’s defense doesn't get nearly enough respect nationally. With Clayton White back, another talented secondary and Dylan Stewart leading a loaded defensive front, could the Gamecocks once again have one of the SEC’s best defenses?

PLUS, Chris dives into one of the craziest developments of the college football offseason. Former college players who had already pursued NFL opportunities are suddenly returning to college after court rulings granted additional eligibility. What does it mean for the sport, and could former South Carolina starter DQ Smith return to college football?

South Carolina has already added Appalachian State defensive back Ethan Johnson, but should Shane Beamer pursue even more players this close to kickoff? Chris explains why the latest transfer portal madness might be a bridge too far — even in the Wild West era of college football.

Topics include: LaNorris Sellers, Kendal Briles, Shane Beamer, Clayton White, Dylan Stewart, South Carolina’s 2026 offense, Gamecocks defense, NFL Draft projections, DQ Smith, Ethan Johnson, transfer portal news and South Carolina football expectations.

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