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South Carolina freshman defensive back Nick Emmanwori ejected for targeting vs. Tennessee

IMG_0985by:Griffin McVeigh•11/19/22•

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Nick Emmanwori embracing leadership role in South Carolina's secondary
Photo: C.J. Driggers/Gamecock Central

Shane Beamer had a tough enough assignment trying to scheme against the electric Tennessee offense. Especially with some true freshmen playing for South Carolina, there were going to be some struggles on Saturday night. Now, the job has gotten even harder thanks to a targeting call.

True freshman defensive back Nick Emmanwori was ejected due to a targeting call. After being flagged during the play, officials went to review the decision. It was quickly confirmed, meaning Emmanwori was out for the remaining of the game.

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South Carolina will now have to defend Hendon Hooker and his incredible gang of wide receivers down an important player. Emmanwori had made an impact early in the game as well, having six tackles before getting ejected. You can tell he was frustrated with the decision as well while heading to the sideline.

If there is a bright side for Emmanwori, he will still have the opportunity to play next week against Clemson. Since the penalty occurred in the first half, he will not be suspended for two quarters in the following game. Now, the South Carolina native will get his first taste of the bitter in-state rivalry.

South Carolina looking to win one on one battles in second half

An upset is brewing in Columbia, with South Carolina having a 35-24 lead over the No. 5 ranked Tennessee Volunteers at the halftime break. Head coach Shane Beamer had his team ready to play on Saturday night, with a ruckus crowd being the rallying factor in the first two quarters.

Shane Beamer gave the key to the second half, saying South Carolina needs to win their one-on-one battles across the field. Whether it’s on the defensive end when rushing the passer or when dropping back in coverage. Small wins will lead to the ultimate goal.

“We just go to win our one on ones. We’re leaving our guys, getting one on one opportunities on defense. The pass rush, pass coverage. We got to win.”

Just 30 minutes remain between South Carolina and their upset. Tennessee has College Football Playoff implications on the line, needing a win to stay alive. Josh Heupel will have to find a second-half game plan quickly.