‘College GameDay’ Returns to South Carolina
In a significant day for South Carolina, it has been revealed that ESPN’s “College GameDay” show will be back, broadcasting live from Gamecock Park in advance of the football game between the Gamecocks and No. 16 LSU. The main event is set to kick off at noon on ABC at Williams-Brice Stadium on Saturday.
Returns After Six Years
This is a return by ‘College GameDay’ to the city of Columbia after an absence since 2014. Host Rece Davis will be leading his tenth season, and he will be joined at the desk by several well-known analysts. The lineup includes Lee Corso, Kirk Herbstreit, Heisman Trophy winner Desmond Howard, Pat McAfee, and Nick Saban.
Broadcasting Schedule and Location
The widely popular sports talk show is scheduled to air from 9 a.m. to noon on ESPN this Saturday. Live broadcasts will be held from Gamecock Park from 9 a.m. to approximately 11 a.m., with the final hour being hosted inside the stadium. The site for the set is located at the Tommy Suggs Garnet Way, which is nestled between the Spurrier Indoor Practice Facility and Williams-Brice Stadium. On Friday, fans will be allowed into the park to watch the shows, with the arena also playing host to SportsCenter throughout the day as well as the ESPN2 College Football Live show, which airs at 4 p.m.
Travel Accommodation and Pre-Game Activities
For access to the park, fans will need a pre-purchased parking pass for all athletics controlled lots, including Gamecock Park. Since parking is already sold out, a shuttle service will be available from 5:45 a.m. from the Russell House for fans. While students with a CarolinaCard can get a free ride, others may use the shuttle for a $5 fare. The early shuttle will also drop off riders inside Gamecock Park, and the first 600 students will also receive a free breakfast and T-shirt.
Game Attractions and Honors
The ESPN GameDay set at Gamecock Park will host SportsCenter hits on Saturday morning from 7:30 – 9 a.m. In addition to this, Gamecock Village presented by Farm Bureau Insurance will open at 8 a.m. on Saturday, with live music, sponsored games and activities, and inflatables for fans. The Gamecock Walk is programmed to occur at approximately 10 a.m. at Gamecock Park.
The sidelines of the Williams-Brice Stadium at 11 a.m. – noon will host the GameDay set as college football progresses. During the games, Gamecock Athletics will honor their former quarterback, radio color analyst, and donor, Tommy Suggs. They will also recognize the 2024 NCAA Champion women’s basketball team during halftime. Fans expected to stay tuned until the show ends, which will coincide with the kick-off of the Gamecocks and LSU game on ABC Sports at 12:12 p.m.
