College Football: Way Too Early SEC Bowl Predictions for ’15

Oct 25, 2014; Auburn, AL, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks receiver Pharoh Cooper (11) catches a touchdown over Auburn Tigers defensive back Nick Ruffin (19) during the first half at Jordan Hare Stadium. Mandatory Credit: John Reed-USA TODAY Sports

Taxslayer Bowl: South Carolina

Another bowl game known to field an unexpected match-up, is the Taxslayer Bowl held in Jacksonville, Fl.

I don’t foresee a .500 repeat for the South Carolina Gamecocks in 2015, as the hiring of new defensive coordinator Jon Hoke and an influx of junior college talent should help Carolina lick its defensive wounds.

With the improvement of the defense, SC should be able to win a few more close games during the upcoming fall. On offense, Connor Mitch will be the starter unless promising true freshman Lorenzo Nunez strips his title during fall camp.

Whoever wins the starting job will have the job of delivering the mail to do-it-all receiver Pharoh Cooper. Newcomer Deebo Samuel should be also dangerous in the slot. The running backs should be reliable, and the offensive line returns three starters.

A Taxslayer Bowl invite should be a nice Christmas present for a Gamecocks team that looks to be a seven or eight win team in ’15.

Next: Music City Bowl