The death of Denver Broncos WR Kenny McKinley, South Carolina's all-time receiver with 207 receptions for 2781 yards, has prompted a special Remember When. McKinley's death--he reportedly committed suicide because his latest knee injury jeopardized his pro career and he felt unprepared for a life without the sport--highlights the need to develop a range of interests and skills in young athletes.
Said his college coach Steve Spurrier this week: "He came to the Georgia game (earlier this season). He seemed in good spirits. Great smile likes he always had. I don't understand it if it happened the way they say. It's hard to comprehend. Kenny was certainly one of my all-time favorite players. He was a wonderful guy. It's hard to figure out why this happened. It's a sad day."
Here was one of McKinley's finest days as a Gamecock:
Liberty Bowl (Dec. 29/2006): South Carolina 44 Houston 36
South Carolina (8-5) coach Steve Spurrier, long considered O wizard, enjoyed his D making big plays in 2nd H in Memphis. After trailing 28-27 at H, Gamecocks held Houston (10-4) to 63y in 3rd Q when Carolina took lead for good on K Ryan Succop's 45y FG. QB Blake Mitchell (19-29/323y, INT), who tied Liberty Bowl record with 4 TD passes, connected twice for 43y TDs with WR Kenny McKinley (3/112y, 2 TDs) within 5-min span of 4th Q to launch South Carolina to 44-28 edge. Cougars sr QB Kevin Kolb made his 50th start and threw 26-39/386y, 3 TDs, INT, while RB Jackie Battle ran for 42y and 3 TDs.
