South Carolina Coach:Will Muschamp, second season (28-21 overall, 6-7 at South Carolina.
Last year: 6-7 overall, 3-5 in the SEC (T-5th in the East). Lost to South Florida 46-39 in the Birmingham Bowl.
Best case scenario: With 10 starters returning on offense, led by super sophomore quarterback Jake Bentley and one of the SEC’s best set of receivers, the Gamecocks score a bunch of points, which takes the pressure off a relatively young and inexperienced defense as it grows over the course of the season. In season two under Muschamp, the Gamecocks emerge as a contender in the division.
Worst case scenario: An inconsistent running game and inexperience on defense lead to some early problems and a slow start, with losses to Kentucky and Texas A&M in September. From there, the schedule only gets tougher.
Quotable: “It’s an exciting time to be a Gamecock right now. I really see a push in our athletic department and support from our administration of doing the things you’ve got to do to be successful.” — Muschamp
