Game Preview and Analysis

Key Matchup

USC LB Bryson Allen-Williams vs. UGA QB Jake Fromm

Allen-Williams returns to the Gamecocks defense after missing most of last season due to injury. The redshirt senior played as a true freshman in the Gamecocks’ last win over Georgia, a thrilling 38-35 victory in Columbia in 2014, and Will Muschamp has repeatedly mentioned how much Bryson Allen-Williams‘ presence meant to his defense. UGA signal caller Jake Fromm returns after an outstanding freshman season in which he led Georgia to the national championship game. While most expect the Dawgs to pound the run, don’t be surprised if Fromm and company come out looking to throw early against a new-look South Carolina secondary. Allen-Williams is the Gamecocks’ best pass rusher and will need to disrupt the timing of Fromm and the UGA offense.

Prediction

The matchup we talked about all offseason is finally here.

Georgia comes into Williams-Brice Stadium looking to once again establish themselves as the cream of the crop in the SEC East. Meanwhile, South Carolina hopes to show to the nation that they are a real player under third-year head coach Will Muschamp.

The Dawgs return a plethora of weapons on offense, including quarterback Jake Fromm. They also benefited from the transfer rule in the offseason, picking up Georgia native and Cal transfer Demetris Robertson in the process. Meanwhile, the Dawgs return five starters on defense, led by stand-out cornerback Deandre Baker.

While the Bulldogs may have the more talented roster, the Gamecocks have enough playmakers to pull the upset in Columbia on Saturday afternoon. Jake Bentley will have his best game in garnet and black, Deebo Samuel will score multiple touchdowns, and the South Carolina defense will make a game winning stop, inevitably sending Williams-Brice into a frenzy.

Georgia has never beaten a ranked Gamecocks team in Williams-Brice. That won’t change on Saturday.

PREDICTION: South Carolina 28, Georgia 24