South Carolina Football: National pundit optimistic on Gamecocks

In recent weeks, the South Carolina football program has received some less-than-favorable projections regarding their chances of success in the 2023 season. Outlets like ESPN’s FPI, Caesar’s Sportsbook, and DraftKings have all predicted the Gamecocks to win between 6 and 6.5 games this fall. These oddsmaker numbers seem lower than the general consensus from analysts and coaches as South Carolina football has been picked as a contender in the SEC East by many who work in college football.

One national voice who disagrees with the low projections for the Gamecocks is Josh Pate. Pate, who earlier in the offseason named incoming Carolina freshman Nyck Harbor as the first true freshman he wants to watch in 2023, took umbrage with the Las Vegas oddsmakers’ disrespectful takes on the Gamecocks’ outlook this season.

On his show “The Late Kick,” Pate pointed out that he understands the argument as to why South Carolina is being projected around 6 wins: the nation’s toughest strength of schedule and a loss of several key contributors from 2022 will be tough obstacles to overcome. However, as he pointed out, the Gamecocks have bested their over/under numbers the previous two seasons, and Pate believed they will do it a third time, as well.

Pate’s reasoning is very similar to most who believe in Shane Beamer’s team in 2023. South Carolina football is returning quarterback Spencer Rattler and his leading target Antwane “Juice” Wells, and the two players seem much more confident and comfortable with new offensive coordinator Dowell Loggains than they ever did under previous offensive coordinator Marcus Satterfield in 2022. If the Gamecocks can field a competitive defense, they will be better than a six-win team this fall.

Here is the entire YouTube clip of Pate breaking down the over/under win totals for the entire SEC East on his show “The Late Kick.” The Gamecock analysis begins right after the 5-minute mark of the video.