South Carolina football: 5 breakout players underutilized by Will Muschamp

South Carolina football players that will play much better under Beamer.

WR Dakereon Joyner

Joyner never got a chance to settle into a position during his first two seasons on campus, and he saw limited opportunities last year in his move to wide receiver. In his first full-time campaign at the position, the former four-star athlete saw just nine touches with the offense. Prior, he’d split time between wideout and quarterback.

While making the transition to a new position is certainly tough, Joyner was a mainstay in the lineup nearly every game. Over the offseason, it appeared as though he’d be a focal point in the offense, having the flexibility to line up in the backfield and out wide.

Unfortunately, that never came to fruition. In game three versus Vanderbilt, Joyner took an end around 47 yards for a rushing touchdown. For some reason, he’d receive just one more carry the rest of the year. In the passing game, he caught just three passes over the first nine contests before tallying four in the Gamecocks’ final game.

Coach Beamer has praised Joyner for work ethic and willingness to help wherever he can. He’s projected as a starter for game one in the wide receiver rotation, and the coaching staff has also said they plan to design a wildcat package for him in the backfield.

Joyner will undoubtedly see more production on offense, and could make an impact on special teams, too. Watch out for a big year from the junior.

RB ZaQuandre White

White is the forgotten man behind Kevin Harris and MarShawn Lloyd when folks talk about the running back room, but he shouldn’t be overlooked. The rusher came to South Carolina as the nation’s top JUCO player at his position, and he’s looking to get an opportunity to make a statement this Fall.

Last year, it appeared as though he’d see the field a ton, seeing eight touches in the season opener. However, fumbles led to a decrease in playing time, and White ended the year with just 10 more touches the rest of the slate. He also had to play a little defense towards the end of the year after a number of Gamecock secondary members left the roster.

White has seemingly ended his ball security issues, and made a huge impact in the team’s Spring Game with both Harris and Lloyd on the sidelines with injuries. That contest saw him tote the rock for 95 yards and a score, and the tailback was able to show off his electricity with the ball in his hands.

Beamer has been high on White’s abilities and work ethic since he stepped foot on campus. With Harris still working though an injury, and Lloyd getting ready for his first collegiate season, White could make a huge impact in the opener, and more.