South Carolina football: will the defense be better or worse in 2021?

TOTAL DEFENSE – Better

The Gamecocks have to be better in 2021. After allowing the highest point per game average for the program since 1995, there’s no way things can get worse. The Gamecock should improve along the front four, and it will hopefully help mask some issues and inexperience on the backend.

Expect the defense to play more aggressively under Clayton White, with an added emphasis on getting to the quarterback. The unit should have the personnel to harass opposing signal callers, and make life easier for an unproven secondary.

While that secondary is unproven, incoming transfers should provide immediate aid. Having Prunty and Smith on the outside should arm the defense with a formidable cornerback duo, so as long as South Carolina can find an answer at safety, the pass defense should improve.

The offense could help the defense out a bit, too. South Carolina projects to have a potent rushing attack behind MarShawn Lloyd and Kevin Harris, which will hopefully allow the Gamecocks to play keep away, control the clock, shorten games, and limit opposing scoring opportunities. There will be hiccups, but when all is said and done, South Carolina’s defense should look much better in 2021.