Gamecocks Settle an Old Score, Crush Virginia 38–6 in CFCS Week 3
CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va. — Coach Sean hadn't forgotten his frustrating 10–7 NDL loss to Iowa State while leading TCU. Now commanding South Carolina, he had an opportunity to settle the score against the same opposing coach.
Different teams. Different league. Same rivalry.
South Carolina delivered a commanding 38–6 victory over Virginia in Week 3 of CFCS Season 2, combining an efficient offensive attack with a relentless defense that gave the Cavaliers almost nothing to celebrate.
The Gamecocks wasted little time establishing control.
On their opening possession, a big passing completion helped set up a 30-yard touchdown run. After the defense forced a Virginia punt, South Carolina immediately went back to work, unleashing a play-action deep shot to Nyck Harbor for another touchdown.
Just like that, Virginia was staring at a two-score deficit against an opponent playing with confidence on both sides of the football.
Quarterback LaNorris Sellers finished with 188 passing yards, while Harbor contributed 74 receiving yards. Running back Matt Fuller powered the ground game with 112 rushing yards, demonstrating the patience and physicality that have become central to South Carolina's offensive identity.
But as impressive as the offense was, the Gamecocks' defense delivered the night's most emphatic statement.
South Carolina recorded five sacks, forced two interceptions and surrendered just 167 total yards. Virginia struggled to sustain possessions, converting only 27% of its third downs while repeatedly finding itself behind schedule.
The Gamecocks committed no turnovers of their own.
With South Carolina leading 31–6 late in the third quarter, Coach Sean shifted gears. Instead of chasing unnecessary explosive plays, the Gamecocks emphasized possession and clock control, putting together a deliberate six-minute drive that drained valuable time and further suffocated any remaining hopes of a Virginia comeback.
It was a performance that showcased more than offensive firepower. South Carolina demonstrated the ability to attack vertically, run physically, protect the football and control the pace of the game.
For Coach Sean, the victory carried added satisfaction. In their previous meeting, his TCU squad had reached the red zone five times but managed just seven points in that frustrating NDL defeat.
This time, South Carolina's offense capitalized on its opportunities, while the defense made sure Virginia never had a chance to respond.
Final: South Carolina 38, Virginia 6.