White emphasizes finishing before Texas A&M matchup

South Carolina defensive coordinator Clayton White said Wednesday that communication, preparation and four-quarter execution are the defense’s priorities heading into its home game against Texas A&M.

White called the first three quarters of South Carolina’s previous game one of the unit’s better performances during his time with the program. He praised the defense’s physicality, tackling, discipline and collective effort, but said the drop-off in the fourth quarter drew a harsh response from the coaching staff.

The ending bothered White enough that he said the defense briefly felt as if it had lost. His message centered on finishing the job regardless of the score or which players are on the field.

Texas A&M quarterback Marcel Reed presents a familiar challenge. White described this as the third year South Carolina has faced Reed and expects the quarterback’s best effort, citing his competitive approach and the talent throughout the Aggies’ roster.

White also pointed to Texas A&M’s receivers as fast, explosive athletes who can win at the catch point. South Carolina’s defensive backs understand the weekly demands of SEC coverage, White said, and he placed the Aggies near the higher end of the conference in individual receiving talent.

South Carolina recently used a matchup-based coverage plan that assigned its top cover defenders to an opponent’s two most-targeted receivers. The plan tested the offense’s alternatives, White said.

White praised Anthony Addison’s development, particularly his improved preparation, attention to detail and understanding of the system. He said Addison practices with uncommon intensity and plays the run hard despite not being a bigger defender.

The Gamecocks’ top three linebackers also carry extensive responsibilities across fronts, coverages, blitzes and special teams. White said their consistent preparation allows them to keep the defense organized after the line creates the initial disruption.

Why it matters

White believes last week’s first three quarters established the standard for South Carolina’s defense. Finishing remains the concern as the Gamecocks prepare for Reed and Texas A&M’s talented receivers.

What to watch next

South Carolina and Texas A&M play at 3:00 p.m. ET Saturday at Williams-Brice Stadium, with ESPN carrying the game.