Thursday Night Bragging Rights: Gamecocks-Tar Heels Preview, Prediction
By Lee Wardlaw
Oct 4, 2014; Lexington, KY, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks wide receiver Pharoh Cooper (11) dives for a touchdown against Kentucky Wildcats linebacker Josh Forrest (45) in the second half at Commonwealth Stadium. Kentucky defeated South Carolina 45-38. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports
Keys to Win: South Carolina
- Shutting Down Marquavius Lewis
If the Gamecocks can’t shut down Lewis, they’ll have to score a lot of points to keep up.
- Run the Ball Early And Often
By using Wilds, Williams, and Carson, the Gamecocks can eat up yards and time while Mitch gets accustomed to the speed of his first college start
- Get the Ball in Pharoh Cooper’s Hands
The do-it-all receiver is what kept the SC offense going in ’14. He’ll have to do it again against UNC, but will that be a problem against the ‘Heels shaky defense?
Keys to Win: North Carolina
- Offense, Offense, Offense
The Tar Heels’ offense could be one of the ACC’s best, and they can make an early statement if they answer the bell early and often.
- Confuse Connor Mitch
No one knows how the quarterback will fare in his debut, and it won’t be pretty if UNC can shut him down. However, it’ll take a performance we haven’t seen from the Tar Heels’ defense in quite a while
- Limit Pharoh Cooper
The Gamecocks’ receiver is a game-changer who shouldn’t be taken lightly. He’ll also have plenty of motivation.
Next: Prediction