Gamecocks impressed with direction of offense under interim OC Bryan McClendon
By Paul Harvey
Published:
Will Muschamp is looking for a new OC, and South Carolina’s WRs coach Bryan McClendon is getting the chance to win the position.
McClendon joined the Gamecocks in 2016 after a long stay with the Georgia Bulldogs. He got his coaching start as a graduate assistant with the Bulldogs in 2007 before climbing through the ranks.
Now, McClendon is being given the opportunity to show that he has what it takes to lead the Gamecocks offense following the firing of Kurt Roper. When asked if this was an audition of sorts, head coach Will Muschamp likened the situation to a lengthy interview:
“It’s a long job interview,” said Muschamp.
He went on to layout a number of areas he is particularly watching during bowl prep to see if McClendon is the right fit:
“I think organizing practice, organizing meetings, command with the team, command with the staff,” said Muschamp, “And obviously the preparation for the game and the production of the game. I think it’s all encompassing. Up to this point, he’s done an outstanding job.”
Obviously the ultimate decision will rest with Muschamp, but McClendon did receive a big vote of confidence from one Gamecocks player. Star TE Hayden Hurst said that McClendon has provided “a jolt of confidence” to the unit:
Hurst on Bryan McClendon: I think he can give us a jolt of confidence. For some time now, we've been searching for an identity on offense.
— David Cloninger (@DCPandC) December 21, 2017
While Hurst will be leaving South Carolina after this season to enter the NFL Draft, getting his vote of confidence could bode well for McClendon. A strong offensive showing and a win in the Outback Bowl may seal the deal.
Paul Harvey lives in Atlanta and covers SEC football.
