The Gamecocks have a habit of turning mistakes into momentum and they will look to do that again when Coastal Carolina visits Williams-Brice Stadium on Nov. 22.
So far, the Gamecocks have statistically outperformed the Chanticleers. Looking at rushing yards, South Carolina has 1,860 in 360 plays, while Coastal has 1,738 in 403 plays. This means the Gamecocks are more efficient at running the ball effectively without amassing interceptions or turnovers.
Coastal is averaging -4.3 yards per play, largely a result of an astronomical number of turnovers. The Chanticleers have 14 turnovers in just six games, a major setback for their offense. South Carolina, by contrast, has had six on the season, proving they are a better team offensively. The Gamecocks also have averaged 5.17 yards per play, showing they move up the field more than back. South Carolina has a clear turnover advantage with positive margin, while Coastal has faced hardship with throwing inaccurate passes.
South Carolina's success in their matchup against Coastal depends on their ability to capitalize on mistakes. Coastal, known for turnovers and simple offensive mistakes, is likely to continue their streak. For the Gamecocks, the key will be converting those miscues into points, especially since their defense proves better than their offense so far.
One clear advantage for South Carolina is stability at quarterback with LaNorris Sellers leading the charge. Coastal is testing their quarterback contenders, finding who is fit for leadership, with Samari Collier emerging as a possible answer. Without solid leadership, Coastal is sure to face the same struggles they have had all season.
The Chanticleers will need to rely on discipline and conservative gameplay to manage against South Carolina's strengths. The Gamecock's recipe for success is simple: play clean, defensive, and force turnovers. If they can continue to win the turnover battle, South Carolina should steam roll over Coastal Carolina and continue that momentum into the tail end of the season.