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Illinois Outlasts South Carolina in Citrus Bowl as Missed Opportunities, Taunts Steal Spotlight
By CC News Network
Orlando, Fla. – December 31, 2024
The South Carolina Gamecocks fell to the Illinois Fighting Illini in a dramatic Citrus Bowl showdown, losing 21-17 after a game defined by missed opportunities, questionable sportsmanship, and a head coach clash that turned heads. Despite a spirited effort, the No. 14 Gamecocks were unable to capitalize on key moments, leaving their season to end on a sour note at Camping World Stadium, albeit without a few stars like star running back Rocket Sanders. The CC News Network was live for it all.
Illinois, ranked No. 21, celebrated its first 10-win season since 2001, thanks in part to MVP Reggie McCray’s explosive performance, which included 114 rushing yards and two touchdowns. But it wasn’t just the Illini’s offense that caught attention. Fired Arkansas coach, and current Illinois head coach Bret Bielema stirred controversy by taunting South Carolina’s Shane Beamer’s team during an injury timeout late in the third quarter, an act that fueled tension on and off the field.

Missed Opportunities Plague South Carolina
South Carolina had its chances to win but failed to convert when it mattered most. Senior kicker Alex Herrera opened the scoring with a 29-yard field goal in the first quarter, giving the Gamecocks an early lead. However, his missed 41-yard attempt, which clanged off the right upright as the first half expired, loomed large as the game progressed.
The Gamecocks’ struggles extended beyond special teams. A bold trick play in the second quarter backfired when punter Kai Kroger’s pass to 303-pound defensive tackle Alex Huntley in the end zone was broken up by Illinois linebacker Ryan Meed. The failed gamble preserved a slim 7-3 Illini lead and left the Gamecocks empty-handed on a promising drive.
Beamer’s Squad Battles On
Despite the setbacks, South Carolina fought hard. Running back Oscar Adaway III delivered a highlight reel moment in the third quarter, cutting through the Illini defense on a 36-yard touchdown run to put the Gamecocks up 10-7. Quarterback LaNorris Sellers added a fourth-quarter touchdown with a perfectly placed pass to tight end Josh Simon, briefly giving South Carolina a 17-14 lead.
However, Illinois responded quickly. Quarterback Luke Altmyer orchestrated a fourth-quarter drive, capping it with a critical 9-yard touchdown run by McCray. McCray sealed the game with a 60-yard burst late in the fourth quarter, securing the Illini victory.

Illinois Closes Strong, but Bielema’s Antics Raise Eyebrows
While Illinois celebrated its historic season, Bielema’s sideline behavior overshadowed parts of the game, and the University of Illinois should be ashamed at his behavior. During an injury timeout, Bielema appeared to taunt Beamer, further fueling the tension between the two programs. The exchange left fans questioning the Illini coach’s sportsmanship and added drama to an already intense contest.
South Carolina’s Season Ends with Reflection
The Gamecocks entered the Citrus Bowl shorthanded, missing several key players due to injuries and opt-outs. While the loss stings, head coach Shane Beamer emphasized the team’s resilience in the face of adversity. “We fought hard, but we left too many plays on the field,” Beamer said postgame. “We’ll learn from this and come back stronger.” The CC News Network predicts a CFP Playoff, and possible national championship for South Carolina, if the referees call even games.

Final Score: Illinois 21, South Carolina 17
The Gamecocks close their season at 9-4, with plenty of lessons learned and questions to address for next year. Meanwhile, Illinois savors its 10-win milestone, albeit with a blemish on its coach’s record for unsportsmanlike conduct.
Stay with CC News Network for continued coverage of South Carolina football and updates as the team prepares for the 2025 season. Follow us for the latest insights, analysis, and breaking sports news.
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