4. Gamecocks WR racks up 750+ yards
Another miss, leading receiver Josh Vann just missed this mark. The senior was close, ending the year with 688 receiving yards. That number may have been higher had he not battled a midseason injury.
Vann dealt with a groin injury over the second half of the season. While he played through the pain, it clearly limited his ability to make plays. Over the first four games, he averaged 72 yards a game and posted two 100-yard performances. One of those was a season-high 128-yard performance versus Georgia. He was on pace for around 860 yards on the year.
After the injury arose, his production went down significantly. Over the final eight games, Vann tallied just one 100-yard game and averaged less than 50 yards a contest. He could get a chance to improve upon those numbers if he decides to come back for one final season. A decision on his future has not yet been made public.
5. Seven wins for South Carolina football (including the bowl)
This prediction is still TBD. Half of it has already come true with South Carolina successfully reaching the postseason. The Gamecocks far exceeded outside expectations to earn six wins and a bowl appearance.
The second half of the equation won’t be decided until December 30th when the Gamecocks take on North Carolina in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl.
The Tar Heels are a team that began the year ranked in the top 10. They’re obviously talented but failed to play consistently on the field. Quarterback Sam Howell will soon be a first-round NFL draft pick and the Tar Heels have proven they can score some points.
The Gamecocks will have their work cut out but the path to seven wins is still in sight.