Predicting South Carolina football’s final record
Georgia Bulldogs, Sanford Stadium, Athens, GA
The Gamecocks winning ways will likely come to a halt in Athens with a road trip to play the Georgia Bulldogs looming in week three. South Carolina escaped with an upset win in their last trip to Sanford Stadium, but a repeat performance doesn’t appear to be in the cards. The Bulldogs will have their eyes set on a national title, and they won’t let the Gamecocks get in their way.
Georgia’s defense will be the key, as they’ll make South Carolina try to throw down the field with a suspect passing attack. They’ll be able to stack the box and limit opportunities for Gamecock running backs, and should get out of this one with little trouble.
The Gamecocks have a knack for sneaking up on the Bulldogs in their best seasons, but we’re not betting on that happening this year. If South Carolina can show some progress and stay in the game, it will build momentum heading into a huge week four matchup.
L (2-1)
Kentucky Wildcats, Williams-Brice Stadium, Columbia, SC
South Carolina opens its home SEC slate with Kentucky in week four, which will provide a huge opportunity in what should be a swing game. Pick up a win here, and bowl eligibility is in reach. A loss, however, puts the Gamecocks in the cellar of the SEC standings with an 0-2 start in conference play.
The Wildcats have had some offseason issues. The backup quarterback left the program after losing the starting competition. One of the team’s starting offensive tackles will miss the first four games of the season, which bodes well for the strong Gamecock pass rush. The Wildcats also had six players suspended for an alleged robbery dating back to the Spring.
Both teams will have question marks, and this will be Kentucky’s first road trip of the year. The defense will again be solid, but if new offensive coordinator Liam Coen can’t get things rolling, South Carolina could leave with an upset victory.
W (3-1)