South Carolina's Week 1 win over Virginia Tech showed flashes of what this team can become, but it also made clear that some fresh faces are ready for bigger roles. From young playmakers who turned limited snaps into highlight reels, to veterans who provided some sparks off the bench, the Gamecocks have a roster depth that deserves more attention. With SC State on deck this Saturday, this is the perfect week to expand rotations and see who can carry that energy into SEC play.
Players Who Should Get More Snaps in Coming Weeks
TE Michael Smith: The redshirt freshman only played one snap on the offense in the opener, largely due to some limited practice time. Yet in that brief action, Smith made a seven-yard catch. He has significant talent and even caught a touchdown last season. Coaches have considered him on of the better players. Look for Smith to earn more snaps at tight end as he practices at full speed. His receiving skills could boost a passing attach that lacked a consistent intermediate target in Week 1.
RB Rashul Faison: The redshirt senior back up running back showed a spark against VT, logging seven carries for 40 yards, 5.7 yards per carry, with a long run of 30 yards. Faison's burst was evident, and he actually outpaced Oscar Adaway III in explosiveness (Adaway averaged 4.3 yards). With the Gamecocks likely to rotate backs against SC State, Faison should get a heavier workload on Saturday.
LB Fred "JayR" Johnson: This true freshman linebacker made an immediate impact in the season opener, intercepting a pass in his collegiate debut. Johnson was a highly touted recruit and flashed some great instincts in pass coverage. He is currently behind starters Justin Okoronkwo and Donovan Darden on the depth chart, but his playmaking ability could inspire coaches to expand his role. Don' t be surprised to see JayR get more snaps.
DB Peyton Williams: The redshirt junior reserve safety also grabbed an interception in Week 1. And with the Gamecocks replacing an NFL draft pick at safety this year, Williams has made his case for more playing time. The starting safeties, DQ Smith and Jalon Kilgore, are solid, but Williams could see increased snaps in upcoming games. In addition, Williams' ball-hawking ability is a plus for the secondary.
PR/CB Vicari Swain: His is listed as a defensive back, but it was his special teams prowess that turned heads, as he delivered an unforgettable 80-yard punt return touchdown in the opener that changed the game’s momentum in Week 1. As a cornerback, Swain is lower on the depth chart, but his playmaking ability is hard to ignore. Don't be surprised if you see Swain with more snaps on defense or even design more special teams touches. Swain’s speed and instincts could be valuable, so expect to hear his name more as the season goes.
A game against a team such as the South Carolina State Bulldogs offers a chance for the Gamecocks to develop its depth. Expect several backups and young players to see action in the second half on Saturday.