COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) -- South Carolina fans snapped pictures in front of large-screen TVs and watched the Southeastern Conference championship game on outdoor terraces in the rain in Columbia.

And when pursuit of a first-ever SEC title finally died amid Cam Newton's stellar performance in Auburn's 56-17 victory, Gamecocks supporters picked up their heads and applauded a season like few others in school history.

Downtown Columbia was filled with Gamecocks fans eager to cheer on the team.

Fans shouted at TV screens when Newton popped up. They cheered each time coach Steve Spurrier or offensive heroes receiver Alshon Jeffery and tailback Marcus Lattimore were shown.

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