South Carolina star DE Kyle Kennard opts out of Citrus Bowl

(Photo credit: Scott Kinser-Imagn Images)
South Carolina star pass rusher Kyle Kennard won't play in the Citrus Bowl against Illinois on Dec. 31, coach Shane Beamer said Wednesday.

Kennard previously declared for the NFL draft on Friday. He is skipping the bowl game in Orlando to focus on his NFL preparations. Kennard is considered a possible late first-round pick.

"He's one right now that isn't with us," Beamer said of