COLUMBIA, SC (WIS) – For the first time in 10 years, ESPN College GameDay will be in Columbia to cover a season-opening game with major SEC implications.
On Saturday, ESPN announced that the iconic sportscast will be airing at Gamecock Park in Columbia ahead of a game against an LSU team looking to prove itself against one of the most impressive defenses of the early part of the season.
The first quarter belonged to all of South Carolina. The defense, which has been the highlight of the season so far, continued its stellar play. Star EDGE Kyle Kennard forced LSU’s first sack of the season midway through the first quarter and forced LSU to punt.
The Gamecocks’ offense also improved in the first half. Quarterback LaNorris Seller capped off a strong early attack and gave the Gamecocks a 7-0 lead early in the game.
After a field goal gave the Gamecocks a 10-0 lead, Buddy Mack returned a blocked punt to give the Gamecocks a 17-0 lead midway through the second quarter.
LSU rebounded in the second quarter and responded with 10 straight points, increasing the Gamecocks’ lead to 17-10.
Sellers threw an interception and a fumble in the first half, but was the driving force of the offense. The redshirt freshman ran for a 75-touchdown late in the second quarter to give the Gamecocks a 24-10 lead.
Nussmeier responded immediately, scoring a 13-yard touchdown with Kyren Lacy toward the end of the first half.
South Carolina leads the Tigers 24-16 at halftime.
Defense wins…games?
Although it is still very early, South Carolina’s defense has been terrorizing opposing teams. South Carolina’s defense smothered the Wildcats last week, totaling 5 sacks and two interceptions, including one that was returned for a touchdown.
The Gamecocks’ pass rush has been particularly impressive. They rank third nationally in total sacks and are led by senior Kyle Kennard and freshman Dylan Stewart, who have combined for 6 of the team’s 10 sacks so far.
The defensive line will need to play at an even higher level to keep the pressure on Garrett Nussmeier and the LSU offense. The Tigers’ offensive line is arguably the best in the country. Nussmeier hasn’t been sacked in two games. Tackles Will Campbell and Emory Jones Jr. will hope to make life difficult for the Gamecocks’ front four.
Air control
LSU goes into this game with one of the best passing offenses in the country. Led by quarterback Garrett Nussmeier, the junior is the second-best touchdown passer in the country (8). The Gamecocks’ secondary will have to keep their top receiver Kyren Lacy (who has 4 TDS alone) and Co. in check to be successful in this game.
The Gamecocks have thrown for just 280 yards this season, which is 12th worst in the country. While the offense has played much better after struggling in Week 1, the Gamecocks expect better play from talented redshirt freshman LaNorris Sellers.
The Gamecocks’ two best receivers this season, Mazeo Bennett Jr. and Vandrevious Jacobs, are both freshmen. Many of the receivers, including the tight ends, will have to play against an LSU secondary that has proven itself against USC’s potent offense.
LSU will face the Gamecocks on Saturday at noon on ABC/ESPN+.
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