Continuing our look at the Gamecocks’ 2011 schedule, today we run down Mississippi State, the 4th toughest game on the schedule.
Other Previews:
The Mississippi State Bulldogs host South Carolina on October 15 in Starkville, MS. For the Gamecocks the game will be the first of a three game road trip. The Gamecocks used to be permanent rivals with the Bulldogs until the SEC changed to a one permanent rival format. USC has won the last 5 games against MSU and won the last meeting at Miss State 15-0 to open the 2006 season.
Why this game might be easier than expected: Lately, the Gamecocks have had the Bulldogs number. The last three games were won by double digit points. If South Carolina wins the battle in the trenches, they could take over the game.
Why this game might be harder than expected: The Bulldogs were a good team last year, and they return 16 starters. Their schedule includes LSU, Alabama, Arkansas and Georgia, so their record may not indicate how talented they are. If the Gamecocks sleep on them, it could be a long night of cow bell ringing.
Read more after the jump as you may be shocked by the prediction….
5 Points to consider:
1) The Bulldogs return all of their skill position starters on offense. All have been in Dan Mullen’s system for three years now. They should be pretty good at executing.
2) The timing of this game works well for MSU. They play at UAB the week beforehand and have the week after off.
3) Mississippi State returns 7 starters on defense; 3 on the line and 4 in the secondary. The linebacking corps is noticeably new and could be a weakness. Clemson transfer Brandon Maye is expected to play at middle linebacker.
4) The game is in Starkville where Head Coach Dan Mullen is only 7-7. (He is 6-4 away from home.)
5) The offensive line could be a weakness. The Bulldogs lost 2nd team All American left tackle Derek Sherrod and center J.C. Brignone. If the Gamecocks talented defensive line can take advantage of some relative youth, they should be able to neutralize Dan Mullen’s scheme.
Way too early prediction: Mississippi Sate is a team on the rise. They have a difficult schedule and could have some losses by mid October. I think the game will be close, but I think the home field advantage seals it, and the Gamecocks lose 24-21.
