Nov 9, 2024; Nashville, Tennessee, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks head coach Shane Beamer celebrates the win with defensive back Vicari Swain (4) against the Vanderbilt Commodores during the second half at FirstBank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Steve Roberts-Imagn Images Steve Roberts-Imagn Images

South Carolina Gamecocks Have Two Players Named SEC Players of the Week After Big Win

Originally posted on South Carolina Gamecocks on SI
By Christian Kirby | Last updated Sep 1, 2025 12:24 PM ET

The South Carolina Gamecocks have two players named as SEC players of the week following their week one win against Virginia Tech.

The South Carolina Gamecocks are riding high after an impressive week one victory over the Virginia Tech Hokies in Atlanta. The victory was especially special for Gamecocks head coach Shane Beamer, who previously played for and coached for the Hokies under his father Frank.

Numerous Gamecocks turned in strong performances in their week one victory. But it was the efforts of a pair of players that earned national recognition. Linebacker Fred Johnson and defensive back Vicari Swain were each recognized as SEC defensive and special teams players of the week, respectively, for their efforts in the big win.

Deserved. pic.twitter.com/5S0FwCv6CH
— South Carolina Football (@GamecockFB) September 1, 2025

Johnson finished the afternoon with an impressive 10 total tackles and an interception. While Swain turned in a massive 80-yard punt return to help extend the Gamecocks' lead in the fourth quarter. The two players' playmaking abilities were one of the leading reasons for Carolina's impressive victory on Sunday.

A strong defense and dangerous special teams unit have been the catalyst for success under head coach Shane Beamer. Should the Gamecocks continue to turn in performances such as these, the team will have an excellent opportunity of reaching its first ever College Football Playoff.

Swain, Johnson, and the rest of the Gamecocks will look to turn in another strong showing this upcoming Saturday, when the team returns to Columbia to host the South Carolina State Bulldogs. Kikcoff for this game is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. and will be aired on ESPN+.

This article first appeared on South Carolina Gamecocks on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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