Defense has been the most important element of the South Carolina-Kentucky game so far. While the Gamecocks’ passing attack was good with LaNorris Sellers starting 3/4 with a touchdown, success beyond that was limited. On the other hand, Kentucky’s passing game was ineffective against South Carolina’s strong defense.

Starting for the Gamecocks, Sellers suffered a right lower leg injury after throwing a touchdown to Mazeo Bennett. After a good performance by backup Robby Ashford, Sellers returned to the game and immediately threw an interception on his first drive back, giving Kentucky great field position late in the second quarter.

South Carolina’s defense has stepped up all game, limiting Kentucky’s offense to just 30 yards passing and 115 yards total offense. Wildcats QB Brock Vandagriff was pressured in the first half and has been unable to get anything done in the passing game so far.

The only bright spot for Kentucky was the emergence of running back Demie Sumo-Karngbaye, who rushed for 73 yards and averaged 5.2 yards per carry. If the Gamecocks’ defense can’t stop the run in the second half, Sumo-Karngbaye can wear down that defense, creating space for Vandagriff and the passing attack.

Kentucky entered the race as a favorite by almost ten points, but was behind at the start of the third quarter.

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