It is Game Day! USC vs. Vandy. Football is again in Columbia, SC and this one has two unbeatens battling it out so you know it will be a good one.
As our preview said, this is not the Vandy of old and USC must play sharp. In our podcast, we spoke of players that must step up. The crowd in Willy B needs to be a factor so be loud Carolina.
When thinking of beating Vandy, there are three keys to this game for USC and they are:
1. Win the turnover game.
2. Find success passing the ball due to the fact the ‘Dores will try to slow Lattimore.
3. Unleash the SC defense, be aggressive. Come out ready to get after it.
Also USC must shut down or contain the following five Vanderbilt players if they want to gain another win, they are:
Trey Wilson, DB
Wilson tops the SEC and ranks second in the NCAA with those three interceptions after three games.
Brandon Barden, TE
Brandon Barden is one of the best tight ends in the SEC. Barden has three catches for 35 yards in the first two games this season, but did not play against Ole Miss due to a lower leg injury. For his career, Barden has 94 receptions, good for 1,026 yards. IF he plays, USC be aware.
Chris Marve, LB
Chris Marve, a two-time All-Southeastern Conference linebacker for the Commodores, can be the defensive difference maker that Vandy needs against USC. Marve leads the team in tackles with 23 with three for a loss.
Zac Stacy, RB
This running back can do a little of anything as he has been asked to run, pass and catch for the ‘Dores. He boasts a nine yard average per carry, which is something to be proud of. He also has 262 yards for the year on 29 carries for one touchdown. He also has four catches for 16 yards. Stacy has not connected in the passing attack but is to be respected if you see him under center.
Larry Smith, QB
Larry Smith screams total offense. He has had two touchdowns on the ground. Smith has passed for 368 yards on 38 for 71 passing with three touchdowns and just two interceptions.
A running quarterback can give USC fits so the Gamecocks defense must have a ‘spy’ on him at all times.
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Make sure to tune in on Saturday at 7 p.m. on ESPN2 for what will be a battle of the unbeaten SEC East teams that will be worth watching.
USC wins 31-10, right?
