Ty Simpson highlights former Alabama players who stand out on South Carolina’s defense

Sep 13, 2025; Columbia, South Carolina, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks linebacker Justin Okoronkwo (17) defends on an incomplete pass to Vanderbilt Commodores tight end Eli Stowers (9) in the second quarter at Williams-Brice Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Blake-Imagn Images

A trio of former Alabama football players are key contributors on the South Carolina defense.

Justin Okoronkwo, Shawn Murphy and Monkell Goodwine all once wore crimson and white as members of the Crimson Tide. Murphy and Okoronkwo are linebackers for the Gamecocks.

Okoronkwo transferred to South Carolina after playing his true freshman season with the Tide in 2024. The German native has accounted for 32 tackles, while Murphy has 23 tackles on the season. South Carolina picked up Murphy out of the portal after he transferred from Florida State.

Ty Simpson discussed what he has noticed about his former teammates at linebacker on Tuesday.

“J.O. (Okoronkwo), of course, he’s a starting linebacker there,” Simpson said. “Long, physical, can run, comes downhill and hits. I remember him here, just really, really good player, really physical, really smart. Really proud of where he’s come. Shawn Murphy’s there, who was actually in my class, went to Florida State, went there. I remember him in my class, just how physical he is, and he can really run. He comes downhill, and he’ll hit you hard, and he’ll fit in the gap pretty well.”

Monkell Goodwine is another former Alabama player, who suits up for South Carolina. He has 18 tackles to his name and two forced fumbles this season. Simpson describes Goodwine as hard to block with his ability to use his hands to be physical.

The Tide will be looking to stop these players from having success against their former squad.

Alabama and South Carolina will clash Saturday in Columbia. Kickoff is set for 2:30 p.m. CST.