Shane Beamer has been making waves in the college football world this season, and a big part of that success can be attributed to his standout pass rusher, Kyle Kennard. The Georgia Tech transfer has taken the field by storm since joining the South Carolina program this offseason, wreaking havoc in SEC backfields week after week. It seems like no one can contain him, regardless of their game plan.
Expectations Surpassed
When South Carolina welcomed Kennard to their roster, they knew they were getting a talented player. However, even Beamer has admitted that Kennard’s performance has exceeded all expectations. It’s not every day you hear a head coach speak so candidly about a player’s impact, but Beamer has been refreshingly transparent about Kennard’s contributions.
“I knew Kyle Kennard was good,” Beamer said. “I don’t know if I knew Kyle Kennard was going to be this good. That’s just full disclosure. I watch his tape — he had some really good plays at Georgia Tech, don’t get me wrong. But it wasn’t like you just turned on a highlight tape and it’s 20 straight minutes of Kyle Kennard sacking quarterbacks and stuff.”
Dominating the Stats
One glance at Kennard’s stats, and it’s clear he’s been a game-changer. With 9.5 sacks this season, he is just three shy of matching his entire four-year career total at Georgia Tech. But that’s not all—he’s also racked up an impressive fourteen tackles for a loss in 2024, leading all of college football in that category. This performance has not only raised eyebrows but also set a new personal best for Kennard.
As the season progresses, and with at least three games still on the schedule, NFL teams are already eyeing Kennard as a potential draft pick this April. His impact on the field has been undeniable, and Beamer has noted that even a former NFL head coach reached out to him earlier this year, praising Kennard as a fantastic addition through the transfer portal.
High Praise from Coaches
“Surprise maybe isn’t a great word but it’s not a flash, it’s dominate every Saturday,” Beamer reflected on the feedback he received about Kennard. The excitement surrounding Kennard’s abilities has been palpable, and it’s clear that he has made a significant impression not just on his teammates and coaches, but also on scouts and analysts looking ahead to the NFL draft.
As South Carolina prepares to host Missouri this Saturday, all eyes will be on Kennard once again. With every snap, he has the chance to further solidify his reputation as one of the best pass rushers in college football. It’s thrilling to think about the impact he could have in this game, especially given his track record this season.
A Standout in the Transfer Portal
The transfer portal has become a hot topic in college football, with many players finding new homes and opportunities. While several have found success, it’s hard to argue that Kennard might just be the best of them all. His ability to seamlessly transition into a new program and immediately make a significant impact speaks volumes about his talent and work ethic.
Beamer is undoubtedly thrilled that Kennard chose to continue his college career in Columbia. The excitement around the program is palpable, and fans are eager to see what the rest of the season holds for this dynamic player. With Kennard on the field, South Carolina has a legitimate chance to compete at a high level, and the energy surrounding the team is infectious.
Looking Ahead
As the Gamecocks gear up for the final stretch of the season, the anticipation is building. How will Kennard perform against Missouri? Can he continue his streak of dominating performances? With the spotlight shining bright, Kennard has the opportunity to showcase his skills even further and solidify his legacy at South Carolina.
In the world of college football, standout players like Kennard are what make the game so exciting. They bring energy, passion, and a level of skill that keeps fans on the edge of their seats. As we watch Kennard’s journey unfold, one thing is for sure: he’s a player to watch, and his future looks incredibly bright.
