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The Gamecocks have some questions still on this team and yet they are in the top 10 and undefeated. While they may not look flawless as a team, the pieces are in place for a run at an SEC East crown.
Marcus Lattimore is only averaging 78 yards per game (66th), but a healthy Connor Shaw will be the key for Cocky on offense. Shaw played in a limited role against UAB last weekend and his performance did not matter much with a 49-6 victory.
Dylan Thompson has played well since filling in for Shaw, but head coach Steve Spurrier has Shaw expected to start against the Tigers.
Many have questioned the move of Mizzou quarterback James Franklin sitting out their game at home against Arizona State. Franklin did not want to any cortisone shots (shoulder) heading into their game last weekend since he prefers to be careful with his body albeit he expects to suit up and start against SC.
Franklin is one of the more talented duel-threat quarterbacks in the SEC when healthy, and it was positive news to see Corbin Berkstresser get the job done in their 24-20 victory. Berkstresser received help from Kendial Lawrence, who ran for 62 yards and 2 TD.
At receiver we have seen consistency from T.J. Moe, who has already hauled in 17 passes (159 yards, 1 TD) this season. Missouri (2-1, 0-1) is taking on No. 7 South Carolina (3-0, AP Poll) in Columbia, South Carolina not Missouri by the way.
Both squads are home to Columbia and clearly this reason alone could be what separates the winner and loser. Will we see freshman star Dorial Green-Beckham develop into a superstar sooner rather than later?
Five catches for just 39 yards is a bit of a joke (4 carries for 19 yards), but the kid need some time to develop in the toughest conference in all of sports. Marcus Lucas has been the second target for Mizzou (13 catches for, 153 yards for 1 TD) and it is imperative for a solid game without SC star safety D.J. Swearinger to play after a helmet-to-helmet hit on a UAB wide receiver.
Although it was the correct decision, the loss will have an impact on both defense and special teams (returner). If Mizzou wins this game, it will be based solely on the improvement from their passing game. The Gamecocks are 88th against the pass and Mizzou is just 75th in passing offense.
A solid defense thanks to two freak pass rushers (Jadeveon Clowney, Devin Taylor), the Tigers will not be able to just show up, expect a victory by running the ball. If Gary Pinkel cannot get 250-plus yards passing in this game, the SEC will have the Tigers for searching for answers after they start out 0-2.
Network: CBS
Time: 3:30 p.m. Eastern
Experts Pick: SC by 10
Danny V’s Pick: South Carolina 24, Missouri 17 (OT)
