The pesky bulldogs come to Columbia tonight to take on “America’s Sweetheart” for the moment the University of South Carolina. The Gamecocks are still enjoying the spotlight of knocking off the Kentucky Wildcats earlier this week but they can not relish in ‘what was’ as they must continue to take care of business on the court to reach the dream of post-season play.
Georgia is trying to win its first road game this season in its seventh attempt. South Carolina took both games from the Bulldogs last season but the all-time series record is tied at 46. The ‘Dawgs record thus far sits at 9-9 (1-4 SEC). Despite this record, UGA is certainly a team not to take for granted as these guys have hung tough in almost every game. Their new Coach Mark Fox has the bulldogs more disciplined this year and no longer the joke of the SEC East.
The Gamecocks sit at 12-8 and 3-3 in league play so this game is one they need to win to continue to mount a case for NCAA play could March. The Gamecocks are lead by their star guard Devan Downey (22.4 ppg., 3.6 apg.), he has led the team in scoring 11 straight games and is averaging 31.3 points in six SEC contests. But to win tonight, the Gamecocks will need the play of guard Brandis Raley-Ross (10.4 ppg., 3.4 rpg.) and importanly center Sam Muldrow (9.2 ppg., 5.7 rpg.).
The Bulldogs will be lead by forward Trey Thompkins (17.3 ppg., 7.9 rpg.), guard Travis Leslie (13.8 ppg., 6.6 rpg.) and guard Ricky McPhee (10.4 ppg.). These three will have to play big tonight to give the ‘dawgs a fighting chance.
For the Gamecocks to find a way to win tonight, the Gamecocks must play strong on the inside. Georgia leads the SEC in rebounding margin at plus-6.2. So it is critical for Muldrow and others to box out. Thompkins can hurt you on the inside so as much as we can limit that threat then the Gamecocks will be in good shape. Coach Horn will coach up the fact that the Gamecocks must continue to do the little things and have the will to win being down two starters. Look for the Gamecocks to pressure a good bit and try to create turnovers as that is a weakness of the bulldogs.
I see this game as a fight for Carolina early but a win for Carolina late. The gamecocks are coming off a high and they now have confidence in their game which is important. Downey will get his and as long as it is not a off night for “the little engine that could,” look for USC to win this game versus UGa by 8 points.
— For another preview, check out our pal at Garnet & Black Attack – HERE.
