Spurrier taps Smelley to start against Ole Miss

Columbia, S.C. — South Carolina coach Steve Spurrier says Chris Smelley will start at quarterback against Ole Miss, relegating freshman passer Stephen Garcia to the bench.

Spurrier says the sophomore Smelley was more mentally ready to lead the Gamecocks as they travel to Mississippi on Saturday.

Smelley has started the past four games, but Garcia is the more popular choice among fans.

Garcia saw his most action in last week’s 26-13 victory against UAB.

Spurrier says Garcia is still struggling with certain aspects of the position.