Sunday, August 22, 2010

Observations from yesterday's scrimmage

Just a few brief notes from the scrimmage...

Offense

The offensive line is continuing to try to get healthy. Curt Porter, Justin Kay, and Tylor Chambers weren't playing. Seniors Tyler Ogletree and Devon Hayes got some time, and we got to see some of the younger players. With the injuries, we are basically working with the #2 line playing as our #1 line. By the time the season starts, the Gamecocks should be a lot healthier.

At quarterback, Marques Ivory worked with the first team offense and Coty Blanchard had second string duties. Ivory hit a long touchdown pass late in the first half. Coty made a nice escape from a near sack as Kevin Dix was coming at him hard and then found an open receiver.

Defense

The defensive line and linebackers consistently put good pressure on the quarterbacks. This is a good sign because the Gamecocks have great cornerbacks. The depth at linebacker could be seen at the scrimmage. The Gamecocks are a solid two-deep, maybe three-deep at all the linebacker positions.

Barry Stafford, the freshman from Chamblee, GA, ended the first half with a sack of Coty Blanchard. Linebacker Nick Johnson had an interception.

Special Teams

Replacing Patrick Tatum was a priority in the offseason. Walk-on Griffin Thomas from Snellville, GA was a bright spot in the spring game with a 52-yard game winning field goal. James Esco transferred from FSU. The Gamecocks signed Joel Smith from Carrollton this year. Right now, it looks like Smith may be redshirted, with an ongoing battle between Esco and Thomas. Griffin Thomas has been very consistent in kicking field goals. They both do a good job with kicking deep on kickoffs.

Coty Blanchard did a good job punting on Saturday.

Had a chance to talk with a few of the players, and they are all eager to be able to line up against another team. Depth charts will now be set, and the Gamecocks will get ready for a trip to Oxford, MS.

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