The South Carolina Gamecocks are fresh off a loss to the Auburn Tigers by the score of 16-13 but the season is still young so all is not lost. Kentucky is 2-3 on the season and they also are coming off a loss as they fell victim to the LSU Tigers by the score of 35-7. Kentucky is bad at this point in the season as they are either at the bottom or pretty close in the major team statistical categories. The Gamecocks cannot take the ‘Cats for granted as evidenced by last year’s loss up in Lexington.
For USC to win this game they must execute these five keys:
- Win the Trench Battles
USC’s offensive line, even though they are playing without Kyle Nunn, must perform better. They have to protect Connor Shaw and create holes for Marcus Lattimore. On the other side of the ball, the Gamecocks defensive line might be without “Mr. Everything” Melvin Ingram so they have to step up. Pressure and disruption in the UK backfield is what must occur. Kentucky gives up four sacks a game so opportunity will be there and all USC has to do is let the players play like they have been doing the last few games.
- Positive Play from Connor Shaw
Sophomore Connor Shaw gets the starting nod and he must step up. He needs to have patience in the offense and let the play develop, make the right reads and spread the ball around as USC has the weapons. UK ranks 11th in the nation in pass defense so it will be tough but Shaw needs to trust himself and those around him.
- Get Lattimore 25 carries
Marcus Lattimore is a key to the offense; even a blind person can see that. However, the USC offense cannot be one dimensional despite knowing the ‘Cats give up 198 yards per game on the ground. UK will attempt to stack the box so an effective passing attack will help the run game. Lattimore would be effective with 25 carries as that will move the chains on offense but also keep UK from focusing just on the run game meaning they have to respect Alshon Jeffery and the other playmakers.
- Win the Turnover Battle
USC cannot afford to turn the ball over like they have been doing. They must play smart and also be aggressive on defense. If and when Kentucky makes a mistake, the defense has to pounce.
- Have Fun
Silly to say but it seems the USC offense especially is uptight. They need to relax and have fun. Do this and good things will occur. Having Shaw under center should bring new energy to the scheme.
These are the five keys for a USC win and as mentioned they have to be executed as the Wildcats can sneak up on you if you don’t take care of business. USC will win this game by the score of 27-10 and move to 5-1 overall.
