South Carolina’s recruits get an early taste of college football during bowl game practice.

South Carolina’s Gamecocks are making the most of their bowl game preparations, not just by refining strategies and filling gaps for their matchup against No. 20 Illinois, but also by involving some special participants — their recently signed recruits.

Head coach Shane Beamer shared on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) that these recruits had joined the team during practice sessions over the past week. Beamer praised their dedication, saying:

“It’s been awesome having these recent signees go through bowl practices with us the last 5 days!!! Much respect for them — they could be at home relaxing but wanted to come practice with us this week!!! VERY excited about them and the rest of the 2025 signing class 🤙🏻.”

Seven recruits, including three-star quarterback Cutter Woods and wide receiver Jordan Gidron, participated in the practices during their school winter break. For these young athletes, the opportunity to experience college-level training early offers invaluable insight into what to expect when they join the team full-time.

Gidron expressed his enthusiasm on social media, replying to Beamer’s post:

“No place I’d rather be…this is 🏡‼️ Thanks for a great week @GamecockFB @CoachSBeamer @coachfurrey.”

These recruits will now have the unique perspective of seeing how the team prepares for a high-stakes game, as South Carolina aims to secure their 10th win of the season and extend their six-game winning streak.

The Gamecocks are set to face Illinois in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl in Orlando, Florida, marking their return to the event for the first time since 2013.