South Carolina is officially turning the page on its offensive identity, and Shane Beamer made that clear Friday morning with the formal introduction of three key additions to his coaching staff. In front of media and university officials at the Cyndi and Kenneth Long Family Football Operations Center, Beamer welcomed offensive coordinator Kendal Briles, running backs coach Stan Drayton, and offensive line coach Randy Clements - a trio that brings a combined wealth of experience and a shared vision for what’s next in Columbia.
For Beamer, this wasn’t just about filling vacancies. This was about setting a tone. South Carolina’s offense has been searching for consistency, and Friday’s press conference felt like a reset - a chance to reimagine what this group can be with fresh voices and proven minds steering the ship.
Kendal Briles: A New Era of Offensive Tempo
Briles steps into the OC role after three seasons at TCU, where he served as associate head coach, offensive coordinator, and quarterbacks coach. He’s known for his up-tempo, spread-based system - a style that’s produced explosive results at nearly every stop in his career. At TCU, Briles helped engineer an offense that could stretch the field vertically while keeping defenses off balance with pace and misdirection.
His arrival in Columbia signals a shift toward a more aggressive offensive philosophy. Briles brings not just play-calling experience, but a track record of quarterback development and schematic creativity. For a South Carolina program that has struggled to consistently generate big plays, his system could be the spark the Gamecocks have been missing.
Randy Clements: Familiarity and Fundamentals Up Front
Joining Briles is Randy Clements, who also comes over from TCU. Clements spent the past season working with the Horned Frogs’ offensive line and has a long history of coaching alongside Briles at multiple programs. That continuity matters - especially when you're trying to install a new system quickly and effectively.
Clements is known for his ability to build cohesive, physical offensive lines that can thrive in high-tempo offenses. His units are typically disciplined, technically sound, and capable of handling the demands of a fast-paced attack. For South Carolina, which has battled inconsistency in the trenches, his presence could be a stabilizing force.
Stan Drayton: Veteran Voice for the Running Backs Room
Rounding out the new additions is Stan Drayton, who takes over as running backs coach after a year at Penn State. But Drayton’s résumé runs much deeper. He’s a 33-year coaching veteran with stops at top-tier programs and a recent stint as the head coach at Temple.
Drayton has long been regarded as one of the premier developers of running back talent in college football. His past work includes mentoring names like Ezekiel Elliott and Carlos Hyde during his time at Ohio State. He brings a detailed, no-nonsense approach to the position - one that emphasizes vision, footwork, and ball security.
What makes Drayton’s addition especially intriguing is how he fits into Briles’ offensive blueprint. In a system that thrives on tempo and space, having a coach who can maximize the potential of versatile backs is crucial. Drayton’s experience and teaching ability could elevate a South Carolina backfield that’s looking for a breakout star.
Beamer’s Vision Taking Shape
Friday wasn’t just about shaking hands and posing for photos - it was about unveiling a vision. Beamer is clearly betting on experience, chemistry, and offensive innovation to push this program forward.
All three hires bring credibility, but more importantly, they bring alignment. Briles and Clements already share a language and philosophy, while Drayton adds a veteran presence who can connect with players and elevate the run game.
There’s no sugarcoating it: South Carolina has work to do. The Gamecocks have shown flashes under Beamer, but consistency - especially on offense - has been elusive.
These hires suggest Beamer knows that, and he’s not waiting around for things to click. He’s making bold moves now.
With spring ball on the horizon and a new staff in place, the Gamecocks are entering a pivotal stretch. The pieces are on the table. Now it’s about execution - and whether this new offensive brain trust can turn potential into production.