Sterling Lucas shares what excites him about South Carolina's EDGE room
There’s a buzz in Columbia about what South Carolina’s defense could look like this season and that starts with their defensive line. In particularly at EDGE, and rightfully so.
“We’re just excited about the depth in that room. It’s the most depth that we’ve had since I’ve been here,” said EDGE coach Sterling Lucas. “I think the guys have been working really hard in the weight room. Luke Day and his staff did a great job of continuing to get those guys going. Now, I think those guys are ready to go play some football.”
[Get your first month of GamecockCentral for $1!]
With a healthy blend of both proven returners, as well as new additions via the transfer portal and from the high school ranks, the Gamecocks EDGE room is one of their deepest positions heading into 2024. A room that could feature many different faces from week to week.
“The depth is awesome. From older guys like Kyle Kennard and Gilber Edmond to young guys like Desmond Umeozulu and Dylan Stewart and even Bryan Thomas Jr. You see him as an older guy now because he’s a junior. J.T. Greer, he’s a junior, he’s played a lot of football. Elijah Davis. We have seven guys in that room that are capable of going out there and winning games with.”
[Get news from GamecockCentral via email]
While the talent is there on paper, none of this would be possible without the job Lucas has been able to do as a recruiter. Five-star EDGE Dylan Stewart, five-star ATH Nyckoles Harbor, and four-star EDGE Desmond Umeozulu were all players for whom Lucas played a key role in recruiting. The same can be said about 2025 four-star EDGE Jaquavious Dodd who committed to South Carolina last month.
“I just think it’s about relationships. It’s relationships and ultimately guys who want to be great. You tell them and you show them exactly how you want to use them in our system. They tell you that they want to get to the NFL. I tell them that I’ve coached in the NFL and I show them the plan of how we can get them to the NFL and how we’re gonna win games. It’s the culture here started by coach (Shane) Beamer and the coaches that we have. I think it’s very attractive.”
