South Carolina's Sack Numbers Must Improve In 2023
As we gear up for a new season of college football, one area that has to improve for this South Carolina football team is the sack numbers. The 2022 season saw them ranked 110th in the nation for sacks, with just 20 to their name. This led to the defense staying on the field far too long and, subsequently, led to them allowing a 43 percent 3rd down conversion rate, the 18th worst mark in the FBS last Fall.
For a team that once boasted top-tier defensive lines, this drop in sack numbers is a far cry from the 'glory days' of Jadeveon Clowney and his counterparts. The Gamecocks need to return to their aggressive, disruptive roots defensively if they hope to compete in the increasingly competitive SEC. So, what can the Gamecocks do to improve their sack numbers for the 2023 season?
Firstly, the coaching staff must emphasize the importance of getting to the quarterback. This could mean tweaking the defensive scheme to include more blitz packages or training defensive ends and linebackers on different techniques to beat their man on the line. The team might also need to consider personnel changes if the current players can't get to the quarterback. The Gamecocks have stacked a couple of solid recruiting classes, and some untapped potential might be waiting on the sidelines.
Secondly, stay healthy. I know this is easier said than done. Throughout college seasons, injuries happen, like they did to Jordan Strachan and Mohamed Kaba last season. Hopefully, this coming season, the Gamecocks can have better luck on that front.
Lastly, the team needs to cultivate a mentality of aggression and relentlessness. Some of the best pass rushers in the sport's history weren't just physically impressive; they had a mindset that they would get to the quarterback, no matter what. This type of mentality can be infectious and could help to raise the performance of the entire defensive unit. Based on what our own Andrew Lyon has seen in practice so far, I look to new defensive tackles coach Travian Robertson to help instill that mentality on the interior.
The 2023 season presents a fresh start for the South Carolina Gamecocks. They can turn their pass rush from a weakness into a strength with the proper adjustments and improvements. The road to recovery might be challenging, but if they can increase their sack numbers, they'll be better positioned to compete with the top teams in the nation.
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