We have good news and bad news today, Gamecocks. We’ll deal with the not so fun stuff first.

Steve Spurrier confirmed today that freshman defensive back Rico McWilliams will miss the entire season after sustaining an injury during practice this weekend. McWilliams apparently got tangled up with Shaq Wilson and ended up tearing ligaments, an injury which will require surgery.

McWilliams was poised to make an impact right away, so this is a blow for him and for the team as a whole. Though he won’t be able to take the field this season, at least one player will have Rico on his mind during games. Marcus Lattimore, who himself just got back into action after a serious injury, spoke about McWilliams and dedicated this season to him at USC’s Football Media Day on Sunday:

“I just want to recognize one of our future leaders, Rico McWilliams. He had an injury last night. My season, every time I go out there, that’s who I’ll think about because of the way he worked Monday through Saturday. He did everything he could. Not the player he was but the way he treated me – he treated me with respect. I know he’s hurting right now, but I know he’ll get through it.”

That’s super classy, but I wouldn’t expect anything less from Mr. Lattimore. Get well soon, Rico, and we’ll be anxiously awaiting your first game next season!

Now, for the much more positive news.

Former Gamecock Lashinda Demus will race for her first Olympic medal on Wednesday at 3:45 p.m. ET. Demus came in third in the semifinals of the 400-meter hurdles today, earning her one of the final eight spots.

Demus was amazing, but it may have been her twin little boys, who cheered, “Go Mommy!”, who stole the show (and the hearts of viewers).

Another former Gamecock, Jason Richardson, will attempt to earn a chance to go for gold in the 110-meter hurdles. The first round of qualifying is Tuesday at 5:10 a.m. ET (set your alarms). Best of luck to Lashinda and Jason!