South Carolina football: four players looking to make impacts at new positions

OFFENSE

WR Dakereon Joyner

Joyner’s transition to receiver actually began to take place last year before he was thrust back into the quarterback room following injuries to Jake Bentley and Ryan Hilinski. Now, he’s back in the wideout room full-time and is looking to become an explosive playmaker.

Joyner’s talent has never been in question. He came to Columbia as a four-star prospect following an electric career at Fort Dorchester High School in North Charleston. Unfortunately, he’s not been able to unleash those talents for the Gamecocks, mostly in part to the previously mentioned flip flopping between two roles.

South Carolina shouldn’t need him in the quarterback room this year, as there is a great deal of depth at the position, so Joyner can finally focus on becoming an elusive pass catcher. New coordinator Mike Bobo will work use Joyner in creative ways across the Carolina offense.

C Eric Douglas

Redshirt junior Eric Douglas has made the move from guard to center along the South Carolina offensive line, and he looks to be in line to earn the starting job. Coach Muschamp has spoken highly of the Charlotte native this fall.

Over his first few seasons on campus, Douglas has appeared in 21 games, making his first career start in the season opener last year against North Carolina. Now, he looks to use that as a springboard into a new role in 2020.

Douglas will compete with Hank Manos and Vincent Murphy in the coming weeks for starting honors.