All of you old offensive and defensive linemen out there should really love this one. There will be some ground-pounding battles in the trenches and the winner of these battles will probably win the game. Florida State comes in with one of the best O-lines they've had in years. South Carolina will challenge with one of the best run defenses (#10) in the country. Spurrier knows his guys must get pressure on Christian Ponder because his secondary gives up 253 yards per game (#107). Without heat on the quarterback, could be a long night for the Gamecocks.
If South Carolina can protect Steven Garcia, and if Garcia is on target with his passes, then Alshon Jeffery could be major trouble for a young Florida State secondary. The Noles come in averaging 3.5 sacks per game so protecting Garcia is a must. The Gamecocks have given up 28 sacks so you see what I mean when I say this game will be won in the trenches.
Both teams numbers are very similar. FSU averages 31 ppg and SC 32. FSU has given up 20 ppg and SC 23. One factor that just sticks out to me was how bad Spurrier and South Carolina were embarrassed in last year's bowl game. I think they are on a mission for this game and will come out and play a solid game. I like South Carolina to cover. Best of luck with your choice.
If South Carolina can protect Steven Garcia, and if Garcia is on target with his passes, then Alshon Jeffery could be major trouble for a young Florida State secondary. The Noles come in averaging 3.5 sacks per game so protecting Garcia is a must. The Gamecocks have given up 28 sacks so you see what I mean when I say this game will be won in the trenches.
Both teams numbers are very similar. FSU averages 31 ppg and SC 32. FSU has given up 20 ppg and SC 23. One factor that just sticks out to me was how bad Spurrier and South Carolina were embarrassed in last year's bowl game. I think they are on a mission for this game and will come out and play a solid game. I like South Carolina to cover. Best of luck with your choice.
