South Carolina Gamecocks Defeat Virginia Tech Hokies in Kickoff Game

Atlanta, Georgia, September 2, 2025

News Summary

The South Carolina Gamecocks started their football season with a notable win against the Virginia Tech Hokies, claiming a 24-11 victory at the Aflac Kickoff Game. The match, held at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, was marked by impressive performances including a touchdown run by LaNorris Sellers and an 80-yard punt return for a touchdown by Vicari Swain. With George Rogers as the honorary captain, South Carolina also earned the Old Leather Helmet Trophy, highlighting their storied rivalry with Virginia Tech. The Gamecocks are set to continue their season with a home opener next.

Atlanta, Georgia – The South Carolina Gamecocks delivered a strong start to their 2025 football season, defeating the Virginia Tech Hokies 24-11 at the Aflac Kickoff Game on August 31, 2025. The game took place at Mercedes-Benz Stadium and was broadcasted live nationally on ESPN, kicking off at 3 PM ET.

The Gamecocks were led by head coach Shane Beamer, who is a former Virginia Tech graduate and the son of legendary Hokies coach Frank Beamer. The win earned South Carolina the prestigious Old Leather Helmet Trophy, a symbol of grit and rivalry in college football.

In attendance were approximately 25,000 Gamecock fans, with another 10,000 to 12,000 expected, making for a vibrant atmosphere. George Rogers, the only Heisman Trophy winner from South Carolina, served as the honorary captain for the Gamecocks during this historic match, which marked their first appearance in the Kickoff Classic.

Game Highlights

The Gamecocks took an early lead in the first quarter when LaNorris Sellers scored on a 15-yard touchdown run. Virginia Tech responded with a safety following a sack of Sellers in the end zone. The Hokies’ John Love then kicked a 29-yard field goal in the second quarter.

South Carolina’s William Joyce also contributed on special teams, scoring a 27-yard field goal, his first career field goal. Just before halftime, Love hit a long 56-yard field goal, narrowing the lead.

The fourth quarter saw a highlight from Gamecock Vicari Swain, who returned a punt 80 yards for a touchdown, further extending South Carolina’s advantage. Love added another field goal for the Hokies, this time from 39 yards out. The Gamecocks sealed the victory with a 64-yard touchdown pass from Sellers to Nyck Harbor, solidifying their place in the game’s outcome.

Injuries and Upcoming Games

During the game, defensive back Judge Collier sustained a knee injury and was seen using crutches afterward. Coach Beamer indicated that Collier’s injury is a knee sprain, with further assessments pending. Additionally, offensive lineman Shedrick Sarratt Jr. did not participate due to an injury, and other players were absent due to various ailments, including Lex Cyrus and Taeshawn Alston.

The Gamecocks are set to play their home opener against South Carolina State on September 6, 2025, with kickoff scheduled for 7 PM, during which they will don special all-black uniforms.

Series Record

Following their latest victory, South Carolina improved their series record against Virginia Tech to 12 wins, 7 losses, and 2 ties. Historically, the Southeastern Conference (SEC) leads the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) 13-1 in previous Kickoff Classic matchups.

The Gamecocks entered the game favored by 7 points, and they showcased their potential for the season ahead with this convincing win.

Game Statistics

• Final Score: South Carolina 24, Virginia Tech 11
• Attendance: Approximately 35,000 fans
• Touchdowns: 2 (Sellers rushing, Sellers to Harbor)
• Field Goals Appearances: Joyce (27 yards), Love (29, 56, 39 yards)
• Punt Return Touchdown: Swain (80 yards)

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Additional Resources

• 247Sports: South Carolina Gamecocks Injury Report
• Wikipedia: South Carolina Gamecocks Football
• The State: USC Football Updates
• Google Search: South Carolina Football 2025
• Athlon Sports: Paul Finebaum on South Carolina Football
• Encyclopedia Britannica: College Football
• Saturday Down South: 5 Questions for South Carolina Football
• Google News: South Carolina vs Virginia Tech

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