With 71 days until kickoff, a look at South Carolina football's number 71 Blake Franks

There are 71 days until South Carolina football coach Shane Beamer and the Gamecocks take the field against the Old Dominion Monarchs at Williams-Brice Stadium on August 31st.

One of the most pressing issues from the offseason has been the team's efforts to improve the offensive line. Last year's unit, thanks to injuries and poor play, was not near good enough to allow a competent offense to show itself, despite great seasons from quarterback Spencer Rattler and wide receiver Xavier Legette.

This year's group should be much better as offensive line coach Lonnie Teasley has brought in three veterans from the transfer portal (Torricelli Simpkins, North Carolina Central; Kamaar Bell, Florida Atlantic; Aaryn Parks; Oklahoma) and three blue chip freshmen (5-star Josiah Thompson, 4-star Kam Pringle, and 4-star Blake Franks).

Franks, who wears #71, has a high upside as a versatile offensive lineman who could end up at any position up front for the Gamecocks down the road. A developmental year should be in store for the Palmetto State native, but he has a bright future in garnet and black.

He already has a strong base (a necessity for any offensive lineman) and has a strong work ethic. If Franks can put it together during his time in Columbia, he has the chance to be a very good player for years to come.

As a benefit to Franks and the other young linemen, there are ten linemen on the team who are in, at least, their third year of college football. Of that group, six are fifth or sixth-year players. The veternas should help make the transition from high school to college easier on the youngsters, and Franks and the others will be better for it.

Franks and the Gamecocks will begin fall camp the first week of August as they prep for the season.