South Carolina Athletics
The 2025 college football season begins with a unique storyline for South Carolina, as the 13th-ranked Gamecocks open year five of the Shane Beamer era in Atlanta against Virginia Tech. The game is set for Sunday, August 31, at 3 p.m. ET inside Mercedes-Benz Stadium, with ESPN carrying the national broadcast.
This isn’t just another opener—it’s the “Beamer Bowl.” Shane Beamer is a proud Hokie alum, a former walk-on long snapper and wide receiver who played for his father, Hall of Fame coach Frank Beamer. He was part of the 1999 Virginia Tech team that played for a national championship, and later returned to Blacksburg to coach running backs for his dad. On Sunday, he’ll stand on the opposite sideline, leading the Gamecocks into a new season against the very program where his football story began.
For South Carolina, the opener carries all the pageantry and weight of a showcase game. Not only is it the program’s first appearance in Atlanta’s Kickoff Classic, but the winner will also hoist the Old Leather Helmet Trophy, a symbol of toughness and tradition that nods to the roots of college football. To add to the occasion, Gamecock legend George Rogers—the only Heisman Trophy winner in program history—will serve as honorary captain.
Fans can expect plenty of national attention. ESPN’s Bob Wischusen, Louis Riddick, and Kris Budden are on the TV call, while ESPN Radio will also have full coverage. Locally, Todd Ellis and Tommy Suggs return for another year behind the mic on the Gamecock Sports Network.
And, of course, there’s the ever-present conference bragging rights. The SEC has dominated the Kickoff Classic series, owning a 13-1 record over the ACC. South Carolina has a chance to keep that streak alive against a Hokies team eager to spoil the party.
About the Author
Dalton Tinklenberg is the Founder and Media Director of The Scouting Depot, where he leads comprehensive coverage of college and professional football. He is an active member of some of the most respected organizations in sports journalism, including the Football Writers Association of America (FWAA), Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA), Maxwell Football Club, Online News Association (ONA), National Football Foundation (NFF), and the Associated Press Sports Editors (APSE).
Before launching The Scouting Depot, Dalton worked with Blue HQ Media, where he covered major sporting events such as the Indianapolis 500, the College Football Playoff, and the Pro Football Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony.
Through his professional affiliations and on-the-ground experience, Dalton combines deep knowledge of the game with recognized standards of storytelling, editorial excellence, and authenticity in sports coverage.
