On Saturday, the Spring edition of the South Carolina Gamecocks took the field at Williams-Brice in front of more than 25,000 fans.

The young guys were given a chance to show what they could do, as the majority USC veterans sat out of Saturday’s game.

Offense

RB Kevin Harris

Kevin Harris hasn't shown the 4.5 speed today, but has been South Carolina's best RB. Runs a little upright, but has routinely made the first guy miss and is averaging 5 or so YPC. — Brad Crawford (@BCrawford247) April 6, 2019

Early enrollee running back, Kevin Harris, was a force for the offense. Harris had 14 carries for 51 yards and a touchdown.

In the crowded Gamecock backfield, maybe Harris can push through as a short yardage weapon.



QB Ryan Hilinski

Ryan Hilinski hits Josh Vann on the rollout.



What a throw and catch on that play. Think we’ll see those two hookup for a long time. — The Spurs Up Show (@TheSpursUpShow) April 6, 2019

The guy everyone had their eye on didn’t disappoint.

The highly touted true freshman QB showcased what he brings to the offense with 206 yards through the air. Hilinski’s decisions were quick, he got the ball out fast, he hit targets in stride, and displayed the ability to throw accurately on the run.

Aside from a few throws that looked bad due to contact down field, Hilinski let the fans know he’s going to be a staple in the offense for years to come.



Defense

S Jamel Cook

The long, athletic Cook had a great day for the defense. The transfer DB from Southern Cal brought the boom with several big hits.

Cook moved well sideline to sideline and was in on most of the plays he was on the field for. The highlight of his day was a great break on a Dakereon Joyner pass on the goaline that he stepped in front of to pick off.

To me, Cook solidified a starting safety role for the fall. Cook, Roderick, Horn and Mukuamu have the future of the DB corps in good hands.



LB Derek Boykins

"Shots being delivered down there…" The whole country will soon know the name Derek Boykins 🐓 pic.twitter.com/g7qQkXxt14 — Central Cabarrus Football (@CCvikingFB) April 6, 2019

At a position of need, Boykins stepped up as a option for Travaris Robinson next fall.

The true freshman LB from Concord, NC showed impressive strength and tackling ability. He stepped up and filled holes well in the run game.

The two plays that stood out to me were his goal-line tackles on Kevin Harris on back to back handoffs. He could be the #3 linebacker for the Gamecocks this season.