Continuing our look at the Gamecocks’ 2011 schedule, today we run down Navy, the 10th toughest game on the schedule.
Other Previews:
South Carolina opens their home schedule the third week of the season with the Navy Midshipmen. The game is at 6:00 and will be broadcast on ESPN2.
Why this game might be easier than expected: South Carolina has a huge talent advantage. If that talent gap can overcome Navy’s scheme, then the game could be easy.
Why this game might be harder than expected: The Naval Academy runs the triple offense. That offense has fallen out of favor in recent decades, but when it is executed properly, it is lethally effective. If the Gamecocks aren’t ready, they’ll get more than they can handle.
5 Points to consider:
1) First, the obvious. Navy beat an undefeated South Carolina team to ruin the 1984 season. The Gamecocks have avenged that loss in subsequent games, but you’ll be hard pressed to find a USC fan who isn’t aware of that history.
2) The success of the triple option is indelibly tied to the offensive line. Navy returns four of five starters and will start 4 seniors. They will be tough to deal with.
3) The Navy triple option can be a ball control offense, but it can score boatloads of points as well. Navy put up 76 points against East Carolina last year and scored at least 30 points in their last 6 regular season games.
4) Despite the success Navy has had, they can be beaten. San Diego State held them to 14 points in the Poinsettia Bowl; Maryland held them to 14 points; Georgia Southern held them to 13, and the Air Force Academy held them to 6.
5) The game is the third of the season for the Middies, so if they are slow out of the gate, it will be to South Carolina’s advantage. Replacing quarterback Ricky Dobbs could be the factor that causes a slow Navy start.
Way too early prediction: Navy gets their yards, but if South Carolina doesn’t turn the ball over, they should be OK. South Carolina 31 Navy 21.
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