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Best SEC In-Conference Games 2016: Number 10, South Carolina at Vanderbilt

By Justin Melton

Nov 14, 2015; Nashville, TN, USA; Vanderbilt Commodores quarterback Kyle Shurmur (14) passes against the Kentucky Wildcats during the first half at Vanderbilt Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 14, 2015; Nashville, TN, USA; Vanderbilt Commodores quarterback Kyle Shurmur (14) passes against the Kentucky Wildcats during the first half at Vanderbilt Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Brown-USA TODAY Sports /
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Vanderbilt Offense vs. South Carolina Defense:

Dec 27, 2014; Shreveport, LA, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks linebacker Skai Moore (10) and linebacker Jonathan Walton (28) celebrate after an interception by Walton in the second quarter against the Miami Hurricanes in the 2014 Independence Bowl at Independence Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports
Can the South Carolina defense stop Ralph Webb and friends? Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports /

Last season Vanderbilt’s offense was very poor, particularly the passing game. The Commodores averaged only 172 yards through the air and 327 total yards per game. The only consistent performer was star running back Ralph Webb, who averaged 96 yards rushing per game.

The South Carolina Gamecocks were almost equally bad on defense. They allowed an average of 430 total yards per game. Good for 94th in the country. They were particularly vulnerable against the run, where they allowed 217 yards per game.

This season, the Vanderbilt offense should improve. They finally have stability at quarterback. Kyle Shurmur was not great last season but he should improve in his sophomore season. Ralph Webb will still be the most underrated player in the SEC.

Meanwhile, the South Carolina defense should be a work in progress. They lost their best player, Skai Moore, due to offseason neck surgery. The defensive line is soft and the secondary is perhaps even worse. Will Muschamp is widely regarded for his defensive acumen. He has his work cut out for him this season.

Advantage: Vanderbilt

Next: SC O vs. Vandy D

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