Brashna Kasi
Updated on: October 11, 2024 11:11 am GMT
ESPN’s “College GameDay” is set to return to Columbia, South Carolina, marking a significant moment in college football broadcasting as it breaks a 10-year absence from this city. The popular pregame show will feature the South Carolina Gamecocks facing the No. 17 ranked LSU Tigers on Saturday, September 14, 2023. Fans are eager to see if the Gamecocks can secure a victory after starting the season strong with two wins.
Game Preview: South Carolina vs. LSU
The Gamecocks enter this matchup with an impressive 2-0 start in Southeastern Conference (SEC) play, following a commanding victory over Kentucky. In that game, South Carolina’s defense was particularly notable, limiting the Wildcats to just 183 total yards while forcing two turnovers. Meanwhile, quarterback LaNorris Sellers demonstrated a solid performance, completing 11 of 15 passes for 159 yards and two touchdowns.
Looking ahead to the game against LSU, the Gamecocks’ defense will need to devise a strategy to contain Tigers quarterback Garrett Nussmeier. In his first two games this season, Nussmeier has thrown for 610 yards and recorded eight touchdown passes against only two interceptions. This matchup promises to be an intense contest as both teams strive to establish their dominance early in the season.
ESPN’s “College GameDay” Details
ESPN’s “College GameDay” will kick off at 9 a.m. ET on Saturday before the game, with live coverage airing on ESPN at noon. Fans can also stream the show via the ESPN app or Fubo, which currently offers a free trial for new subscribers. The show has become a staple in college football, providing insightful commentary and analysis ahead of the day’s games.
Historic Significance of GameDay in Columbia
This visit marks “College GameDay’s” first trip to Columbia since 2014, when it aired from the Gamecocks’ match against Missouri, a game that South Carolina narrowly lost. Over its history, South Carolina has hosted “GameDay” six times, with the most recent being a disappointing defeat against North Carolina in the 2022 season opener. The excitement surrounding the Gamecocks’ performance and the anticipation from fans is palpable as they prepare to welcome the show back.
Ol’ Crimson: A Unique Tradition
In addition to the pivotal matchup, another significant aspect of “College GameDay” is the presence of Ol’ Crimson, the flag of Washington State University. The flag has become a beloved symbol, first flying on the show during a broadcast in 2003. It will be featured for the 306th time this Saturday, continuing a tradition that resonates with fans across the nation.
The Story Behind Ol’ Crimson
Ol’ Crimson is more than just a flag; it represents the spirit and pride of Washington State University. The flag, a vibrant crimson with the university’s insignia, has traveled to numerous “GameDay” locations since its inception. Its initial purpose was to showcase school pride and advocate for “GameDay’s” presence in Pullman, Washington. It took 15 years for the show to finally broadcast from the WSU campus in 2018.
The Legacy of Ol’ Crimson’s Presence
The tradition rose to prominence thanks to Tom Pounds, known as “The Godfather” of Ol’ Crimson. A Washington State alumnus, Pounds started flying the flag at “GameDay” in Texas, inadvertently initiating a movement that would capture the hearts of college football fans. Today, the Ol’ Crimson Booster Club coordinates its appearances, mailing a flag kit each week to volunteers who can fly it at the current “GameDay” site.
What’s Next for “College GameDay”
As “College GameDay” continues its journey across different college campuses, fans are left eagerly anticipating the upcoming Saturday’s broadcast. Following the Columbia show, audiences will be keen to see where the program travels next as it highlights college football’s most significant storylines throughout the season.
This week’s game is going to be really exciting! South Carolina has been doing great lately, and there are some cool traditions that come with “College GameDay.” With so much on the line and fans really getting into it, this episode is sure to be a fun experience for everyone watching and for the teams playing.
