COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) - South Carolina coach Steve Spurrier says star defensive end Jadeveon Clowney doesn't want to quit on his team and is looking forward to playing football for the Gamecocks.

Clowney's status become a trending topic this week, with some columnist suggesting the sophomore might sit out the season to protect his health and likely high draft position in 2014. Spurrier says Clowney wants to improve himself this fall.

Clowney is taking part in winter workouts with the team. He's expected to be on the field when the Gamecocks open spring practice March 5.

Spurrier said those suggesting Clowney take the year off don't understand the value of team competition.

Spurrier said Clowney's helmet-jarring hit in the Outback Bowl made him the game's most talked-about player.