Offensive Position Grades: South Carolina vs Mississippi State
South Carolina's offense showed up in a big way on Saturday night against the Mississippi State Bulldogs, accounting for 422 total yards and five total touchdowns. Stars like Spencer Rattler and Xavier Legette continue to shine, while other position groups are beginning to see players emerge, which could make the offense a more well-rounded unit in the long run. How did each position perform against the Bulldogs?
Quarterback: A+
To think Spencer could have had an even bigger night than he did is crazy, but there was a lot left on the table, especially after running the ball 47 times, which I think was needed. What's crazier to think about is Spencer's two lone incompletions came off a drop and questionable no-call in the endzone. Spencer continues to make the right reads and plays, leading to great success for the 5th-year senior.
Running Backs: A-
Without being able to go back and watch the film quite yet, I think the only knock on this position group is third-quarter Joyner's fumble. Both backs, however, did a great job in terms of pass protection last night, and both combined for 128 total yards and two touchdowns on the ground.
Wide Receivers and Tight Ends: B+
Again, this is possibly another grade some may not agree with, but it was the Xavier Legette show tonight. Knox did a good job tonight as well; however, he still had a rather significant drop on a 2nd and 7th play in the fourth quarter, the second week in a row where this occurred. While I think Legette is off to a great start this year, finding another target for Spencer Rattler, who can be just as consistent, will be essential the rest of the season.
Offensive Line: B+
While I think this is the most complete game this offensive line unit has played, some things still need to be fixed in terms of consistency with interior run-blocking and picking up stunts and twists more quickly in pass protection. However, these men did exactly what they needed to do against a defensive scheme that favored the Gamecocks in this game.
This offensive outing was by far one of the best for this team this season and a much-needed one heading into Knoxville, TN, next weekend. Spencer Rattler and Dowell Loggains will have to show up once again but could help this team secure 3-2 and 2-1 in conference play heading into a bye week.
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