How the South Carolina Gamecocks Can Get Better On The Offensive Line

October 20, 2012; Gainesville FL, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks center T.J. Johnson (55) calls a play before he hikes the ball against the Florida Gators during the second half at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Florida Gators defeated the South Carolina Gamecocks 44-11. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

It seems like every season the number one question the South Carolina Gamecocks face deals with the offensive line.

Next year will be no different.

With T.J. Johnson graduating, a massive hole at center will have to be filled before any other question on the line can be answered.

The number one name on South Carolina fans’ minds is probably Clayton Stadnick. Next year he’ll be a sophomore, and have three semesters of school under his belt since he enrolled early last year.

He was a three star recruit according to Rivals, and his brother Brock was a four star recruit.

If the Gamecocks don’t want to shift anyone around on the line, starting Clayton might be their best bet.

The other rookie who could feasibly get that nod is Kyle Harris, who had a little bit longer offer sheet than Stadnik.

The Cocks might just feel like having someone a little more experienced man the center position next year, though.

Based on size, their only logical options are Ronald Patrick and Mike Matulis. I don’t think they’ll switch Matulis over, though.

On the rest of the line, there should not be many questions.

Brandon Shell is progressing well, and he should be the undisputed starter at his guard spot. As a senior, Ronald Patrick should lock down the other guard position, and Matulis and Cody Gibson should anchor the line at the tackle positions.

Without a solid center, though, this line has miles to go before 2013 starts.