COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) - South Carolina coach Steve Spurrier says running back Marcus Lattimore told him he will be back on the field for the Gamecocks.

Spurrier spoke to a crowd of more than 1,000 players, students and fans who turned out Monday to wish Lattimore a speedy recovery and a happy 21st birthday.

Lattimore dislocated his right knee and severely damaged several ligaments in a horrific injury Saturday against Tennessee.

Spurrier says Lattimore sent him a text saying he isn't done playing for South Carolina. Doctors have told the junior his injury could take more than a year of recovery, keeping him off the field until the 2014 season.

Lattimore watched the rally over the Internet.

He rushed for 662 yards this season and his 41 career touchdowns are a school record.