DQ Smith, a four-year South Carolina standout with over 200 tackles and a TD interception, is headed to Virginia Tech — eligible to play in 2026 thanks to a Louisiana court ruling and avoiding the NFL draft. He’ll start practicing Tuesday, joining a Hokies secondary already leading the nation in defensive snaps under new coach James Franklin. With VMI as their opener on Sept. 5, Smith’s veteran presence could be a game-changer for a defense hungry for cohesion and depth.

Listen in comfort:
Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn.

Advertise on DNN:
advertise@thednn.ai

This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.
Report issues to feedback@thednn.ai.

View sources & latest updates:
https://sources.thednn.ai/96a6107735d227e8

The South Carolina Gamecocks face a thrilling kicker competition heading into their game against Kent State, with Max Kelley, Upton Bellefant, and Malik Orsan all vying for the starting spot—none have locked it down yet. Coach Shane Beamer and special teams coordinator Matthew Smiley say they’re letting the best performer emerge naturally, since kickers aren’t like quarterbacks. With each contender bringing strong experience or potential, fans will get their first real look on Saturday at 12:45 PM ET—and maybe even see a rotation early. It’s a competitive, exciting mystery to watch unfold.

Listen in comfort:
Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn.

Advertise on DNN:
advertise@thednn.ai

This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.
Report issues to feedback@thednn.ai.

View sources & latest updates:
https://sources.thednn.ai/bda0557093c5f01f

Gamecocks football heads into their season opener against Kent State without two key starters—offensive tackle Jacarrius Peak and EDGE rusher Dylan Stewart—both sidelined by lingering injuries. Coach Shane Beamer confirmed they’re improving but not yet cleared for Week 1. Peak battles a knee injury from February, while Stewart, who played through a back issue last year, is nearing contact clearance. Though the early slate features winnable games against Kent State and Towson, the real test comes in SEC play starting Week 3 against Mississippi State. In the meantime, backups like Dayne Arnett, Shed Sarratt, Seth Smith, Darius Gray on the line, and Caleb Herring at EDGE are stepping up. The priority? Getting Peak and Stewart fully healthy before the big conference matchups.

Listen in comfort:
Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn.

Advertise on DNN:
advertise@thednn.ai

This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.
Report issues to feedback@thednn.ai.

View sources & latest updates:
https://sources.thednn.ai/3fe5123c5390d12f