Spurrier Says Shaw Will Start as Quarterback on Saturday

Sophomore quarterback Connor Shaw will be taking snaps on Saturday against Kentucky.

Gamecock Head Coach Steve Spurrier said Shaw practiced well on Monday night and that change was needed, as the team prepares to take on the Wildcats.

“This is his game, it’s his opportunity to go play and we think he’s ready,” Spurrier said. “We’re going to find out Saturday. Connor had a good practice tonight and, as most everyone knows, our quarterback play has not been as good as we hoped. We’ve got to do something."

Spurrier asked Gamecock fans to give Shaw their support. It was the team's first practice since Saturday's 16-13 loss against Auburn.

Quarterback and fifth-year starter Stephen Garcia was 9 of 23 for 160 yards and two interceptions against an Auburn pass defense that came in ranked last in the SEC.

"It wasn’t that hard a call," Spurrier said. "At some point we have to do something to shake up this offense and this is the first step. We’ll see how it goes. It’s Connor’s game. Unless he gets hurt, this is his game.”

Shaw said he's ready for the challenge.

“It’s an opportunity I’m willing to take advantage of,” said Shaw.  “I think I’m ready to play. I’m excited and we’ll see how it goes this Saturday. I feel confident and I feel like I’m ready to play.”

The Gamecocks take on the Wildcats at 12:21 p.m. The game will be televised on the SEC Network