In the SEC Game of the Week, the South Carolina Gamecocks hosted the 16th-ranked LSU Tigers at Williams-Brice Stadium, energized by a packed and lively crowd. South Carolina seized the momentum from the opening kickoff, taking a 24-16 lead into halftime. While LSU found some offensive rhythm late in the second quarter, their defense continues to struggle.
On offense, South Carolina’s coordinator, Dowell Loggains, has mixed the run and pass effectively, keeping LSU off balance. The Gamecocks’ offensive line has done a solid job opening running lanes, and quarterback LaNorris Sellers has kept the Tigers’ defense on its heels with his dual-threat ability. His highlight of the half came from a 75-yard touchdown run late in the second quarter.
However, Sellers has been inconsistent through the air, completing just 8 of 16 passes for 112 yards with one interception. If South Carolina can continue establishing the run, more opportunities for downfield passing should open up, but Sellers needs to improve his accuracy on deep shots.
Turnovers have been a concern for the Gamecocks, as LSU has won the turnover battle so far, intercepting a pass in the end zone and recovering a fumble deep in South Carolina territory. These mistakes could come back to haunt the Gamecocks as the game progresses.
On the defensive side, the much-anticipated clash between LSU’s offensive line and South Carolina’s stout defensive front has been dominated by the Gamecocks. LSU quarterback Garrett Nussmeier has faced constant pressure, and the Tigers’ ground game has been stifled, managing only 41 yards on 13 carries (3.2 yards per carry). South Carolina linebacker Debo Williams has led the charge, helping to bottle up LSU’s run attack.
“Beamer Ball” has also made its mark. Monkell Goodwine blocked a punt on LSU’s third possession, setting up the Gamecocks inside the 10-yard line. Rocket Sanders capitalized immediately, punching in a touchdown on the next play.
For LSU, the passing game showed signs of life in the second quarter as the offensive line began to protect Nussmeier better. But overall, the Tigers’ defense has struggled to contain the Gamecocks, outside of capitalizing on turnovers. The second half will be critical to see how LSU adjusts on both sides of the ball.