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The South Carolina football team is in the midst of offseason training as it looks to bounce back from a four-win 2025 campaign. Views from the practice field sparked a reaction this week.
Offensive linemen were seen taking part in a workout drill that many deemed useless. Coach Randy Clements responded to the critics on social media.
The workout seemed more an agility drill than anything else. Players were seen shuffling their feet to move side to side before ducking below preset hurdles.
The goal was likely to improve footwork and lateral motion while also working on leverage and up-field movement. Some viewed it as a waste of time.
Internet roasts South Carolina football.
New OL coach Randy Clements working with his new group of offensive linemen. pic.twitter.com/2IWdvVX0lL
— Jack Veltri (@Jacktveltri) March 4, 2026
Former Penn State offensive lineman Landon Tengwall wrote, “‘Why is OL development so bad these days?’ Because coaches are spending Indy periods doing whatever this is. I’d love to hear the rationale for why this drill exists. Good luck LaNorris Sellers.”
Former NFL guard Geoff Shwartz echoed that sentiment by saying, “Feels like a time-wasting drill. What is the purpose of this?”
At 5’9″ and 175 pounds, I can definitively admit that I have no offensive line experience. Those two former players have more knowledge of the position than I ever will.
Clements, however, is knowledgeable. He’s been around the block. He responded to the skeptics online.
Who is Randy Clements?
The South Carolina football assistant followed offensive coordinator Kendal Briles from TCU. He’s spent more than two decades working with lineman at the college level.
His previous stops include North Carolina, TCU, Ole Miss, Florida State, Houston, and Baylor.
The veteran coach responded to his critics with video evidence of the drill translating to game play.
Coaches make sure your drills show up in real time. pic.twitter.com/mA0aYzmMRo
— Randy Clements (@Coach___Clem) March 4, 2026
The offensive line was an issue for the Gamecocks last year. Clements is tasked with revamping an offensive line unit that allowed an SEC worst 3.58 sacks per game. His goal is to keep starting passer LaNorris Sellers upright.
The offense revolves around Sellers, who has been slowed by injuries in the past. It seems unlikely that his offensive line coach would risk the quarterback’s health by wasting time with meaningless drills in a non-contact session.
The team brought in eight new transfers to bolster its front as searches for improvement. It was a major point of emphasis in recruiting. Now, that group is working to get better in a variety of different areas.
Randy Clements will not let the outside noise impact his approach. He’s sticking to the drill, which he believes has proven effective.