Continuing our look at the Gamecocks’ 2011 schedule, today we run down Auburn, the 7th toughest game on the schedule.
Other Previews:
The Auburn Tigers come to South Carolina on October 1.
Why this game might be easier than expected: No Cam Newton and no Nick Fairley could make for a long season for Auburn.
Why this game might be harder than expected: Gus Malzahn still has the scheme, and the Tigers have had some good recruiting classes.
5 Points to consider: 1) The biggest hole on the Auburn offense wasn’t left by Cam Newton; it was left by the four offensive lineman who have moved on. This should be an area of weakness.
2) The defense faced massive attrition as well. They return only three players from last year’s team.
3) Michael Dyer is Auburn’s version of Marcus Lattimore: a hyped freshman who produced as a rookie. Expect the Tiger offense to lean heavily on him.
4) The South Carolina game is the beginning of a difficult stretch. After coming to Columbia, the Plainsmen travel to Arkansas, face Florida at home and then get to go to Baton Rouge.
5) The last time these teams played in Columbia, Auburn was #2. The Tigers slipped away with a 7 point win when USC couldn’t punch the ball in from the 5 yard line.
Way too early prediction: South Carolina gets a measure of revenge. 34-17.
