Preview: Missouri at #13 South Carolina
Date: 9/27/14
Time: 7 PM ET
Television: ESPN
Spread: Missouri (+5.5)
Players to Watch
Maty Mauk, Quarterback (Missouri)
Amongst what is a young, athletic crop of SEC quarterbacks, Mauk is one of the best. He has a laser cannon for an arm and understands how to control it. Likewise, Mauk has proved that he can extend plays and make plays with his feet if need be. Despite having lost the top three receivers from last year’s team, Mauk has still started off the season well and will be a tough player for South Carolina to pin down.
Shane Ray, Edge Rusher (Missouri)
Though Ray was not even a starter last year, his impact was key to Missouri’s defensive success. Now, in a bigger role, Ray has continued to be a threat to opposing quarterbacks. Through just four games, Ray has already racked up five sacks. South Carolina will be the best offensive line he has faced, but his quick nature will be tough for them to handle.
Mike Davis, Running Back (South Carolina)
Lingering injuries aside, Davis is one of the most talented runners in the nation. His blend of vision, burst, balance, and power is rare and he has been able to make opposing defenses gameplan for him. If Missouri does so, they may have another issue on their hands.
South Carolina Receiving Corps (South Carolina)
Not only has Shaq Roland continued his success from last year, but Nick Jones and Pharoh Cooper have stepped up into more featured roles, and have played exceptionally well. Few college teams in the nation have the personnel to be able to keep up with all of them at once.
Missouri’s Offense vs South Carolina’s Defense
With South Carolina’s new defensive line still working out their kinks, Russell Hansbrough has an opportunity to run all over them. That said, he is not a star player. At the moment, Missouri’s offense does not quite have one, thus the offensive attack must be balanced and efficient. Neither side has a true edge here, but there is always the slight chance that Mauk overcomes his youth and has a stunning game.
South Carolina’s Offense vs Missouri’s Defense
Missouri has a nasty pass rush, but aside from that, they may be vulnerable. South Carolina has star players that can dominate both the ground and the air, and they will make use of all of them. More importantly, South Carolina has a strong enough offensive line to allow for their skill players to thrive. Assuming Dylan Thompson can limit mistakes, South Carolina’s offense will have the edge.
Game Preview
While Missouri has some exciting pieces, there are still not ready to compete with teams like South Carolina. While Missouri’s offense has a good chance to play up to par, their defense will struggle and ultimately lose them the game. South Carolina’s offense has too many stellar athletes at the skill positions. That, paired with a stout offensive line, will enable the South Carolina offense to take control of the game.
Implications
For South Carolina, this is their fourth conference game of the year, meaning they should be a lot more comfortable with the situation, even more so considering they are playing at home. On the other hand, this is Missouri’s first conference game. They will go into the game having not handled the same type of talent in previous weeks and will be, to some extent, unprepared. South Carolina could use this win to solidify their spot at the top of the SEC East.
Final Prediction
South Carolina wins: South Carolina- 38 vs Missouri- 21