Continuing our look at the Gamecocks’ 2011 schedule, we look at the toughest game of the schedule, and if you’ve been reading the series, you know there is only one team left: Arkansas.
Other Previews:
The Arkansas Razorbacks will host South Carolina in Fayetteville on November 5.
Why this game might be easier than expected: The loss of Knile Davis changes this team. Without him, they could be tremendously diminished offensively. They also have a first year quarterback. He looks promising, but who knows?
Why this game might be harder than expected: We think this is the hardest game on the schedule.
Read more after the jump.
5 Points to consider: 1) Arkansas lost starting RB Knile Davis for the season. He was the most underrated running back in the conference last year, and he was going to show everyone why this year.
2) Many are predicting the Razorback offense to be a juggernaut this year. There are three big questions that must be all answered in the affirmative before that can happen: can Ryan Mallett be replaced; who will play running back, and who will block for them?
3) The wide receiver corps gets plenty of accolades. Anyone who remembers the Sugar Bowl should know that they have a tendency to get the drops, too. Maybe USC will be lucky enough for that to happen against them.
4) The Hog defense is overshadowed by the offense most years. That will probably be the case again; although 3 of 4 linemen, 2 of 3 linebackers and half the secondary return. They will also have their top 3 tacklers back from last season.
5) This is the last road game of the season for USC. It follows on the heels of a trip to Tennessee and is a week before Florida. If South Carolina must beat Florida to go to Atlanta regardless of the Arky outcome (like last year), the Gamecocks might not play their best game.
Way too early prediction: I think the Hog offense is a little over-hyped. USC gets a rare win in Fayetteville 31-27.
