For South Carolina football fans who remember the early days of the Steve Spurrier era in Columbia, there are several names that stand out. Sidney Rice and Kenny McKinley were two of the greatest wideouts to ever play under the lights at Williams-Brice Stadium, Eric Norwood was an all-time great pass rusher despite being “too small,” and Syvelle Newton seemed like he was capable of just about anything on the field.
Another name that resonates throughout Gamecock Nation from that period of Sputh Carolina football is Jasper Brinkley. Big #52 was a freak at middle linebacker. As big as many defensive linemen, Brinkley ran one of the fastest 40-yard dash times at the NFL Combine (after tearing his ACL), and he used his size and speed to be a menace to opposing offenses while playing for the Head Ball Coach.