This is exactly what everyone wanted right? Gamecocks versus Clemson, rivals, in a “loser-go-home” scenario at the College World Series on national television with the winner getting a shot at a national championship versus the UCLA Bruins.
USC will put their faith in RHP Sam Dyson while Clemson will counter with LHP Casey Harman. Each team knows the opposing pitchers so no surprises there. Each team knows what they must do. Who wants it more tonight? Clemson, in my view, is the underdog with the pressure now due to the loss last night by the score of 5-1. Gamecocks have the “mo-jo” heading into this elimination game which is critical.
I could carry on about the “what if’s” and keys to the game for USC. I won’t this time. The winning formula for Carolina is the same as it has been in the CWS. Get the timely hits, pitch defensively and let the bullpen seal the win. Do that while not “shooting yourself in the foot” and SC will win. Tigers will look to pounce but the Gamecocks must be ready from the moment they take the field. Keep the focus, keep the attitude and keep the patience at the plate.
I want to see SC score first like last night. Do this and the CU confidence meter goes very low.
Dyson has to be crisp like Roth and the bullpen must be stellar when asked to close the door. Do that and CU gets frustrated.
A frustrated Tiger with no confidence means Advantage Gamecocks.
SC wins this in similar fashion as last night. Look for 4-7 runs from SC while Clemson gets 0-3.
No matter the result – I am very proud of the gamecocks baseball team in 2010. Let’s win tonight to make us “more” proud.
GO COCKS!
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