Here are three key takeaways following the Gamecocks nail-biting win over Louisiana Tech on Saturday:

1. Ty’son Williams should be RB1

Williams looked exceptional carrying the ball for the Gamecocks Saturday. He finished the day with 13 carries for 95 yards and 1 TD, including this impressive 35 yard TD run:

Ty’son has been the most explosive running back by far to this point. That being said, he should undoubtedly be starting when the Gamecocks travel to College Station next weekend.

2. Where’s the pass rush?

South Carolina’s pass defense struggled Saturday, giving up 281 yards through the air. LA Tech QB J’Mar Smith looked extremely comfortable at times, including on a 12 play, 75 yard drive to go ahead 13-0 early in the second half. The Gamecocks had a couple of chances to get to Smith and missed on sacks. They’ll have to find guys to step up in the pass rush, especially after learning of news that LB Bryson Allen-Williams will be gone for the rest of the season.

3. Get out of your own way.

Look, this South Carolina offense was downright dreadful through three quarters Saturday. The Gamecocks struggled to get anything going and had to score 17 points in the 4th quarter to secure the win. However, this isn’t due to a lack of talent on that side of the ball. WR Bryan Edwards is a man among boys outside and WR OrTre Smith is coming along nicely. WR Shi Smith continues to improve, TE Hayden Hurst is always a threat, and WR Randrecous Davis is finally healthy and contributing. The biggest problem is Kurt Roper’s inability to get out of his own way and let this offense make plays. It’s no coincidence the Gamecocks had their best offensive quarter when they threw the ball downfield and let guys go up and beat their man. Kurt, don’t make this thing harder than it needs to be.

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