It's been several days since the hottest game ever was played in Columbia, but the vibes across Gamecock Nation have stayed just as high as those temperatures. Simply put, that was a fun game.
After months of speculating what a Kendal Briles' offense would look like and a yearning for a more consistent offense, this team delivered. It was much needed relief for the fanbase. 57 points and 645 total yards made it feel like we watched a different sport compared to last season, which is now officially in the rearview mirror.
Outside of the first offensive drive, the Gamecocks found the end zone every drive. LaNorris Sellers looked to be in command of the offense, and understood his reads. He seemed to better understand how to manipulate the defense, too.
South Carolina's running backs could have a big day against Towson
There were a few throws he'd like back, and the opening drive sack stands out as one where he could have stepped up and flashed some of the LaNorris magic. But overall his performance was exactly what you'd hope for going 19-of-23 for 270 yards and three touchdowns. Personally, I was hoping to see more of his running ability, but it simply wasn't needed in this game.
Alongside Sellers, the skill players flashed from top to bottom. The Matt Fuller hype seems valid, along with the chatter of the running back group being deep behind him. Christian Clark brings a complimentary build and skillset to Fuller, while Jabree Coleman and Jawarn Howell can develop and prove to be strong pieces. In the receiving room, Nyck Harbor did Nyck Harbor things but it was Donovan Murph who stole the show. Logging four receptions for 92 and two touchdowns, Murph seemed to answer the question as to which young player will step up in the absence of Jayden Sellers.
What's wild about this game is that the defense put up a shutout and yet it somehow feels like that is being overlooked. But that may be due to the excitement on the other side of the ball. Defensive coordinator Clayton White's unit did exactly what you would hope they would against a MAC opponent and overpowered them. Starting the game in the 3-3-5 formation was unexpected, but could be something we'll see more of this year to give opposing teams the occasional different look.
Whether it was the base formation or the alternate, this unit was relentless in their effort and showed strong tackling and got off the field often as they held the Golden Flashes to 5-of-14 on third down. Similar to the offense, once this group settled into the game they imposed their will at every turn. Judge Collier was all over the place and seems posied to be the next great defensive back at South Carolina.
The defensive tackle group played with great effort led by transfer Tomiwa Durojaiye and off the edge, the sack by Anthony Addison stands out. Not just because of the end result, but also the hustle from Julian Walker to almost get there first. As Dylan Stewart continues to ramp up in his injury rehab, expect to see those two get a lot of reps.
All told, it was a great day in Williams-Brice. Football is back and so is the excitment around our fanbase.
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