Kent State at South Carolina — Sept. 5
South Carolina should view this matchup as an opportunity to build confidence and establish offensive rhythm before facing more difficult SEC competition. Kent State will need an exceptional performance to overcome the Gamecocks’ advantages in size, speed, and depth. South Carolina should be particularly effective running between the tackles and using play-action once the Golden Flashes begin committing defenders to the running game. Defensively, the Gamecocks should generate pressure and force Kent State into hurried throws and third-and-long situations. Unless South Carolina commits multiple turnovers, this should be a relatively comfortable afternoon in Columbia with the Gamecocks controlling both lines of scrimmage.
Prediction: South Carolina 41, Kent State 10
