South Carolina Football's 5 Things to Watch During the Spring Game:
Does the Offensive Line Look Improved?
A combination of injuries, poor play, and inexperienced players being forced into action crippled the Gamecocks' offensive line in 2023. Had it not been for the heroics of Spencer Rattler and Xavier Legette and the tough running style of Mario Anderson, the USC offense would have been among the worst in program history. Now, with all three of those players gone, the line will have to be better.
Theoretically, the big uglies up front should be better this season just because the group is healthier. Players in the two-deep last season like Markee Anderson, Cason Henry, Vershon Lee, and Jakai Moore missed multiple games (or the whole season) but are back and healthy.
Transfer portal additions Torricelli Simpkins and Kamaar Bell could be factors on the interior of the line this year and are worth watching on Saturday. Even true freshman Josiah Thompson has turned enough heads to wonder if he will play some at tackle during his first season. The continued development of Tro Baugh and Tree Babalade will be essential parts of the position battles on the line, too.
The plan with the line could be different this season. With the (re)addition of Shawn Elliott to the staff as tight ends coach and run game coordinator, the Gamecocks likely will mix more zone (and zone read) running scheme elements into their offense. With question marks with some of the offensive line personnel, the easier-to-block zone scheme could help out the line.