Shane Beamer provides update on Drew Tuazama’s status after bye week

After a bye week to rest, Drew Tuazama is back with the Gamecocks. The defensive end did not travel with the team for their game against Tennessee on Sept. 30. On Tuesday, South Carolina head coach Shane Beamer updated fans on Tuazama’s situation.

“He’s good,” Beamer said. “It was just a personal reason that he didn’t go on that trip. We were both on board and both on the same page with why he didn’t go on the trip. He had a great week of practice last week. He did some good stuff today in practice too. I just met with him in the office, as a matter of fact, about an hour ago. He’s in a great frame of mind, great spirit, as well.”

The 6-foot-5 senior joined the Gamecocks midway through fall camp as a grad transfer from UAB. Tuazama has made four appearance for South Carolina this season with one start. He has recorded just one tackle with the Gamecocks.

Drew Tuazama finds new role in new home

It’s obvious Tuazama is still finding his footing in his new environment. Nonetheless, South Carolina’s staff is confident the veteran presence can become a significant contributor on defense.

“He’s definitely an up-front guy,” South Carolina defensive coordinator Clayton White said. “The best thing he gives us right now, obviously we love his size and his makeup. We’re trying to find a home to see if it’s helping us on the inside rushing or if it’s on the outside rushing on passing downs. He’s such a big body that he can get in there and block a field goal.

“In short-yardage situations, goal line situations we can definitely use a guy of his caliber. We’re trying to plug and play him. It’s hard when you come here in the middle of training camp and try to get the entire system. It makes it kind of tough.”

Tuazama can plug some large holes. Listed at 6-foot-5, 275 pounds, Tuazama has the ability to play and set the edge while also coming in and serving as a pass-rushing defensive tackle. Tuazama knows his transition into a new scheme will be a process.

“Right now I’m playing a little bit of three-tech…I’m better rushing out of a three than off the edge with my game right now,” Tuazama said in September. “I’m getting adjusted to the three-tech, the techniques and coach T-Rob. Getting adjusted to that.” 

South Carolina will need Tuazama to find his role by this weekend. On Saturday, the Gamecocks will face off against Florida at 3:30 p.m. ET. The game will be broadcast on the SEC Network.