Gamecock Sports: Game Prediction - Gamecocks vs. Kentucky

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The Battle of the Two Quarterback Systems
After scrapping out a win in Orlando last week, the Gamecocks return home for another SEC matchup against the embattled Kentucky Wildcats. Carolina will be in front of another sold out Williams-Brice Stadium this Saturday. The Gamecock faithful are ready tosee this much talked about team light up the scoreboard and not allow the Wildcats to catch up late as has happened in many cases this season so far. Hopefully we’ll see this offense perform to their capability this weekend.

Kentucky Wildcats
The Wildcats are employing a dual quarterback system with Jalen Whitlow and Maxwell Smith. Smith is the more efficient passer and Whitlow is the more efficient runner, but both can make the downfield passes necessary to win. Jojo Kemp, Kentucky’s outstanding freshman running back, will look to expose the defense as has been done earlier this season by the likes of UGA’s Gurley. The big test will come against linebacker Avery Williamson who leads the SEC in tackles. He will be charged with the task of stopping both Mike Davis and the passing game. Which he has proven repeatedly this season that he’s capable of doing.

South Carolina Gamecocks
Despite leaving last week’s game early, Connor Shaw is healthy and will start this weekend for the Gamecocks. Coach Spurrier said earlier this week that he was making the long throws with no issues during practice this week, so there is no reason to hold him back. He did also state that Dylan Thompson would get significant playing time as he has earned the right to play a bigger role in the offense. Mike Davis will look to continue his outburst that started during the second half of the UCF game and shoulder the load to take pressure off the passing game.

The defense continues to get better each week, but they still have a long way to go. The linebackers will face another big test this week against two dual threat quarterbacks. They will also be tasked to stop a young running back that is averaging over 8 yards per carry.

Prediction
Despite the defense not living up to the hype so far this season, the Gamecocks will find a way to slow down the Kentucky offense and limit their time of possession. Carolina’s offense will be successful with both Dylan and Connor at quarterback. They will find a way to get Mike Davis involved early to set the tone for the rest of the game.

Final Score: South Carolina 31, Kentucky 21

Post written by Gamecock Girl Sports Bloggess, Lauren Rippy.