SEC Football: Three Things to Watch for in Week Nine
1. Can South Carolina Shock the World?
South Carolina is not a very good football team this season. However, their defense has been scrappy all season. Plus, their offense may have found a new life under the direction of true freshman Jake Bentley. Bentley was exceptional against UMass. Still, they can’t actually beat Tennessee this week.
Or can they? Consider this, Tennessee almost lost to Appalachian State. Also, the Volunteers got all they wanted from the Ohio Bobcats. Thus, it stands to reason that the Gamecocks could give the Volunteers a tough game.
More from SEC Football
- SEC Football: Rattler, Cook, Mertz Rise in Week 4 QB Power Rankings
- 2023 Week 4 AP Poll Top 25: Every SEC team’s highest, lowest spot on ballot
- SEC Football: Florida, LSU rise in Week 4 2023 power rankings
- 4 SEC football picks to hammer and one to avoid in Week 3
- After down Week 2, Week 3 provides another opportunity for SEC football
Furthermore, the Gamecocks are at home, which is always advantageous, particularly for a young team led by a true freshman quarterback. Finally, the Volunteers are still a walking triage unit. South Carolina, meanwhile, is healthy.
With all of that said, is it likely that South Carolina wins? Absolutely not. The Gamecocks have a slim chance at best. They will have to play perfectly. Tennessee will have to make mistakes, and South Carolina will have to capitalize on those mistakes. Still, anything is possible.