Stewart and Peak Will Play Against Mississippi State
The Gamecocks duo is expected to see action in Saturday’s upcoming matchup.
Updated on Sept. 18, 2026 in Football
Live Poll
Do you prefer when your local college team relies on high-profile player transfers to improve?
South Carolina edge rusher Dylan Stewart and offensive tackle Jacarrius Peak are set to play in this Saturday's game against Mississippi State. Stewart returns to the lineup following a back injury that kept him sidelined for the first two weeks of the 2026 season.
Why it matters
The availability of these two key players provides a significant boost to South Carolina's depth and competitive capability on both sides of the ball. Their return is a critical development for the Gamecocks as they face a tough Mississippi State opponent.
During his 2025 freshman campaign, Dylan Stewart recorded 6.5 sacks and 10.5 tackles for loss across 13 appearances. Jacarrius Peak, who stands 6-foot-4 and weighs over 300 pounds, joins the Gamecocks' offensive line after a three-year stint at NC State.
The players
Dylan Stewart
He is a talented edge rusher for the South Carolina Gamecocks who recorded 11 starts during his freshman season.
Jacarrius Peak
He is an experienced offensive tackle who transferred to South Carolina after spending three seasons with the NC State Wolfpack.
The details
Stewart is slated to anchor the edge after recovering from a back injury sustained last year. Peak is expected to step into the starting lineup at left tackle to bolster the protection for the South Carolina offense.
Timeline
Dylan Stewart suffered a back injury in 2025.
The Gamecocks will face Mississippi State this Saturday.
Season Trajectory
The return of Stewart and Peak is vital as South Carolina navigates the competitive 2026 Southeastern Conference football schedule. Their presence stabilizes the roster, significantly impacting the team's ability to maintain a positive trajectory through the remainder of the season.
Stewart's return restores a pass-rushing threat that accounted for 6.5 sacks in his freshman year, potentially altering opposing offensive schemes. Peak is expected to lock down the left tackle position, providing stability that could improve the team's yards-per-carry average.
The takeaway
The successful integration of returning veterans and impactful transfers is a hallmark of building a championship-caliber college program. Fans should monitor how these individual roles evolve as the team gains consistency through the mid-season.
Further reading
For more on the team's season outlook, see Football.
Live Poll
Do you prefer when your local college team relies on high-profile player transfers to improve?
