South Carolina dropped another game in SEC play with a 29-20 loss to Missouri on Saturday night. The defeat prompted many questions, including the stability of the program going forward. But the fans were talking more about what happened immediately after the game became final.
According to The State's Jordan Kaye, "Shane Beamer just ran after Dylan Stewart, who was already walking in the tunnel to the locker room. Beamer tapped him on the back and told him to join the team for the alma mater."
Shane Beamer just ran after Dylan Stewart, who was already walking in the tunnel to the locker room.
— Jordan Kaye (@jordankaye_23) September 21, 2025
Beamer tapped him on the back and told him to join the team for the alma mater
Except Stewart was ready to hit the road, which might be a reality soon. Many believe the former five-star will soon be entering the transfer portal to find a better opportunity. What makes this interesting is the coach-to-player dynamic in the situation. It's unusual for a coach to have to physically call back one of his star players for a team tradition.
Stewart is considered one of the top defenders in the SEC and wanted to be in Columbia after signing a landmark NIL deal with The Garnet Trust. The terms of his contract were reportedly valued at around $1.5 million per year. He turned down other top-tier programs to be with South Carolina. Through four games this season, Stewart has 17 tackles (4.5 for loss) with two sacks.
But the season has been tough for the Gamecocks, who are 2-2 with a winless SEC slate. For Stewart, it's about finding a school to fit in and play right away. If he hits the portal, he'll have to wait until next fall to be out on the field. He has two years of eligibility left and the goal of being on a College Football Playoff team is high. Whether that comes to South Carolina remains to be seen. Beamer and the Gamecocks have a lot of work to do.
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