South Carolina players discuss their decisions to play in the Gator Bowl
South Carolina has had numerous players opt out of playing in the upcoming Gator Bowl. Yet, it means a lot to the guys who have decided to still play.
Jovaughn Gwynn, Nate Adkins, and Dakereon Joyner embody what South Carolina football is all about. The three seniors all have differing futures, but all want to leave on a positive note.
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Adkins has certainly increased his chances to play at the next level this season. When he arrived at South Carolina, his role was to be more blocking focused. As the year progressed he turned into a viable receiving option.
“I was always going to play, you know it’s my last college game ever and I wanted to help myself in any case that I can to go play at the next level or whatever it is,” Adkins said.
He played in every game and started eight. Adkins’ biggest game came against Clemson where he tallied four receptions for 62 yards.
Aside from Adkins, both Gwynn and Joyner have been at South Carolina from the start.
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Gwyn has been a consistent force in the lineup for the Gamecocks throughout his career. Over his four seasons, he’s played in 48 games and started 46 of them.
Gwyn will be declaring for the NFL draft following the bowl game. Yet he explained why coming back for the Gator bowl is important to him.
“Just to come back and play one more game for this University and play one more game with my teammates because this will be the last time we ever are on the same field together,” Gwynn said. “This will be the last time we ever get to really like spend time with each other so just to come back and play with them and do it one more time.”
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Joyner’s career at South Carolina has had a lot of ups and downs. All in all, he’s played in 44 games in many different roles.
He won the MVP of last season’s Duke’s Mayo bowl. This season, Joyner has not seen as many reps as he did in years prior.
“I’ve been through a lot and so why leave now? My dad always told me to finish what you started so that’s what I’m here to do. I never questioned it,” Joyner said.
Even though defensive back Marcellus Dial is returning for the 2023 season, playing in this game is still of utmost importance.
“Really for the fanbase, for the community, and the whole Gamecock nation behind us,” Dial said. “We just want to end off on a right note.”
