OCT. 24, AT SOUTH CAROLINA

The South Carolina football program is difficult to figure out.

Is it on the verge of glory like it was in 2024 when it was 9-4?

Or, is it ready for a collapse like last year’s 4-8 season?

With LeNorris Sellers, considered one of the nation’s top quarterbacks, back under center, the Gamecocks have instant credibility. It’s a nice place to start, but it’s hardly a lock to make a significant impact this season.

With that sort of talent in a key position, it automatically makes South Carolina a dangerous team, If the pieces fit in around him, the Gamecocks can reclaim that good feeling.

If not, it’s likely coach Shane Beamer and his staff will be gone.

Three stats told the story of frustration last season: South Carolina was outscored 83-35 in the fourth quarter; the Gamecocks were 125th in the country in third-down conversions (31.9%), and ranked 131st in sacks allowed (43, 3.58 per game).

Nyck Harbor and Purdue transfer Nitro Tuggle are top receivers along with tight end Brady Hunt. Matt Fuller, who gained 260 yards last season while playing behind Rahul Faison (now with the Kansas City Chiefs), is the top running back.

Several new players have been brought in to try to solve the offensive line problems.

Illinois transfer Tomiwa Durojaiye will be the anchor of the defensive line while Tennessee transfer Caleb Herring should play a major role at edge.

Justin Okoronkwo and Fred Johnson are linebackers that could be the leaders of the defense.

Eight games into the season, the Gamecocks will know if they’re playing well enough to be considered for a bowl game or if they’re destined to be dismantled at the end of the season. That will likely play a significant role in determining how this game unfolds.

The last time the Volunteers played at South Carolina was Nov. 19, 2022. Tennessee was ranked No. 5 but was destroyed by Spencer Rattler and the Gamecocks, 63-38.

Typical of having no way to figure out the Gamecocks.

PREDICTION: Tennessee 31, South Carolina 20