Gamecocks defeat Eastern Illinois Panthers in season opener

The Gamecocks run out to be greeted by an almost full Williams-Brice Stadium to start off the 2021 football season.

FILE— Then redshirt freshman running back Marshawn Lloyd evades a tackle attempt made by an Eastern Illinois player during the 2021 season opener. Lloyd made the first down for the Gamecocks.

Fifth-year tight end Nick Muse and redshirt senior offensive lineman Eric Douglas celebrate a touchdown pass from graduate student quarterback Zeb Noland. Muse ran for a 2-point conversion, bringing the Gamecocks' score to 8 at the top of the first quarter.

Redshirt senior running back ZaQuandre White celebrates a touchdown after a 63-yard run downfield. This touchdown brought the Gamecocks to 39 points at the top of the fourth quarter.

Gamecocks make a defense pile onto an Eastern Illinois player traveling down the field.

Sophomore tight end Jaheim Bell celebrates a touchdown pass from graduate student quarterback Zeb Noland. This touchdown brought the Gamecocks to 15 points at the end of the first quarter.

Redshirt senior offensive lineman Eric Douglas hands the ball to graduate student quarterback Zeb Noland at the beginning of the play.

Senior wide receiver Josh Vann steps into the end zone with a 12-yard pass from graduate student quarterback Zeb Noland. This touchdown brought the Gamecocks to 22 points at the top of the second quarter.

Redshirt senior placekicker Parker White kicks a field goal. The additional point brought the Gamecocks' score to 15 at the end of the first quarter.

The Sandstorm begins in the student section as rally towels are flailed around.