Mississippi State vs. South Carolina: Three Gamecocks Players to Watch

The Mississippi State Bulldogs (2-1) got off to a hot, undefeated start to the 2023 college football season, but were quickly sobered by a 41-14 fall to the LSU Tigers in Week 3.

Up next, MSU will face the South Carolina Gamecocks (1-2), who come off of a 24-14 loss to the No. 1-ranked Georgia Bulldogs.

These two are SEC opponents that do not meet that often. The last meeting happened in 2016 when the Bulldogs won it, 27-14.

South Carolina currently holds a 9-7 record against Mississippi State, on the right side of the all-time series. They look to add to the win column in Williams-Brice Stadium.

Here are three South Carolina players the Bulldogs are going to have to keep tabs on to come out with a win in their first road game of the season:

QB Spencer Rattler

Rattler is looking for a bounceback game after losing to No. 1 Georgia in the previous week’s matchup. He only completed 52% of his passes while being hounded by Georgia’s front seven.

One key thing to watch out for is his deep ball against a worrying MSU secondary. He will use his legs to gain short yardage and to create opportunities down the field but do not be surprised if he runs more than expected. If he has good protection in the pocket, he will be an issue for the Bulldogs

CB Marcellas Dial

The new star corner had an impressive game against Georgia. Recording eight total tackles in the game, he was one of the bright spots in the loss. His quickness and ability to read the quarterback’s eyes could be an issue for MSU quarterback Will Rogers. The lack of playmakers on the State’s side will allow Dial to look for easy opportunities for deflections and interceptions.

WR O’Mega Blake

The Gamecocks star receiver Juice Wells will not suit up against Mississippi State due to an injury he suffered in the previous game. The next man up is sophomore O’Mega Blake.

Against Georgia, he led the team in receiving with 86 yards on five catches. Blake will be Rattler' No. 1 target and he is only getting better ever game his plays. He has great footwork, and his route running could be an issue against MSU.

The Bulldogs look for a strong win against this team to keep their season alive in a wild SEC West. With a looming Alabama matchup coming in the next week, this game is a must win for the Bulldogs.