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Georgia Football 2018 Preview: South Carolina Gamecocks

By Alistair Penny

TAMPA, FL - JANUARY 1: Quarterback Jake Bentley #19 of the South Carolina Gamecocks hands off to running back A.J. Turner #25 during the first quarter of the Outback Bowl NCAA college football game against the Michigan Wolverines on January 1, 2018 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Brian Blanco/Getty Images)
TAMPA, FL - JANUARY 1: Quarterback Jake Bentley #19 of the South Carolina Gamecocks hands off to running back A.J. Turner #25 during the first quarter of the Outback Bowl NCAA college football game against the Michigan Wolverines on January 1, 2018 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Brian Blanco/Getty Images) /
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ATHENS, GA – NOVEMBER 4: A. J. Turner
ATHENS, GA – NOVEMBER 4: A. J. Turner /

What are their weaknesses:

While they boast talent in the receiving positions, running the ball could be an issue. They have 3 backs that are serviceable, but none of them has really stood out and become a starter. AJ Turner held the job for the final eight games of the season, but 531 yards in a season was hardly the return of a star in the making.

The offensive line is decent although not dominant. If UGA can stop the running game, which they should do, then they can make SC very one dimensional. While SC have lots of receiving talent, they don’t want to be throwing it all the time. That’s especially true against Georgia and their pass rushers. If UGA can pin their ears back and rush Jake Bentley, they should be able to put them in a very miserable position. It’s hard to get the ball to wide receivers when you’re getting hit every play.

Offensively, Georgia should be able to do what they want. Yes, the SC defense is good, but the strongest part of it is probably an area when Georgia is even stronger, the line. If UGA’s offensive line takes another step forward this year, then the Dawgs should be able to control the clock and the game. I would also expect Jake Fromm to attempt some passes against a secondary that is actually pretty poor. Players like Terry Godwin and Mecole Hardman should be able to exploit coverage for much of this match-up.

Next: Previewing the first game of the season: Austin Peay Governors

By no means will this be an easy game. It will in fact be a big test, much like the Notre Dame game the past season. A win here will likely help define the year as it gets the Dawgs off to a great start in the SEC. While it won’t be easy, I think that’s probably what happens. Keep an eye out for UGA to unleash Zamir White as well if he’s fully healthy. He won’t see time in week 1, but if he’s fully healed, they’ll absolutely use him in week 2.

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