The season-opener at Williams-Brice Stadium on Sept. 3 was not just a “homecoming” for host team University of South Carolina. 

For Georgia State head coach Shawn Elliott, it was a return to the stadium where he spent time as an offensive line coach and interim head coach. 

The game also marked a return to the Palmetto State for former Gray Collegiate record-setting running back K.Z. Adams, offensive line teammate Alec Johnson and Panthers’ co-captain and center Malik Sumter of Dutch Fork. 

Sumter saw most of the action in the game, which also saw freshman safety Nick Emmanwari for make an impromptu appearance early for USC after R.J. Roderick suffered an injury. Senior offensive lineman Hank Manos of Chapin also saw significant time for USC, while fellow former Eagle wide receiver Zavier Short dressed for the game.

Georgia State had a 14-12 lead in the third quarter. The Gamecocks proceeded to score 23 unanswered points sparked by two blocked punts for touchdowns. 

New placekicker Mitch Jeter also had two field goals of 50-plus years and starting quarterback Spencer Rattler finished 23-37 for 226 yards, a touchdown and two interceptions. 

South Carolina returns to action Sept. 10 at Arkansas in its SEC opener.