| 27 August 2010
Today the University of South Carolina released its’ depth chart going into the week one match-up versus Southern Miss on Sept. 2nd. Some interesting takeaways when you look at the depth chart and we are going to give our opinion below…
Here is the Depth Chart for you to print out. Below we comment on some positions of interest.
QB
When looking at QB, it states Garcia OR Shaw. Seems the starter is still unknown. Spurrier has said that it should not matter and what does matter is who plays the most. What is for certain is both will play. Who gets the majority of the snaps? I am guessing Garcia and he also will be the starter.
WR
Has Alshon Jeffery, Tori Gurley and DL Moore listed as first teamers. Then what is known is Jason Barnes is listed behind DL Moore. Seems some battles still taking place between these four for playing time: DeAngelo Smith, Lamar Suggs, DeMario Bennett and Ace Sanders.
Loads of talent in the group and you will see all of the above getting time the first game or two until more is known about who will be the regulars and who will step up. So many options to throw to; this is a blessing for a Spurrier offense.
TE
Saunders not listed but did you expect him to be? Remember he is suspended. It has Patrick DiMarco listed first and Justice Cunningham second. What is interesting is DiMarco is also listed as the starter at FB. He cannot be both places at once can he? Justice – time to step up big.
RB
Marcus has made his impression felt. He and Kenny Miles listed as starters with that “OR” there again. Then you got Maddox OR Giles. Love the fact this group is loaded with talent. Looking forward to watching this group in the first game. Seems Marcus is worthy of the hype leading up to his signing. I am really stoked, and yes I said stoked, about this unit.
OL
Jarriel King at LT with Kyle Nunn backing him up. Chisolm with Watkins listed #2 at LG. TJ Johnson at C, with Ronald Patrick as #2. Watkins as RG starter with Campbell and AJ Cann behind him. RT has an “OR” there with Hutch Eckerson and Kyle Nunn battling.
Seems like a solid group but expect the above to change most likely from week to week early on this season as the right mix is trying to be determined.
The zone blocking scheme will improve their play as a unit....take that to the bank.
Punt Return
Gilmore listed #1. No surprise here and yes he is that good. Don't be surprised if you see him knock down a pass, then catch a punt and then line up under center...all in 3 plays.
Kick Return
Familiar names listed - Chris Culliver and speedy Bryce Sherman back there to field the kicks.
LBs
Biggest Surprise – No Shaq Wilson listed. Hope he gets that hamstring healed up. He may not start but hope he gets to play some. Seems Rodney Paulk and Josh Dickerson are still battling at MLB. At WLB Tony Straughter and newbie Quin Smith are battling. Should I be worried with no Shaq? The Lakers weren’t so I won’t be either but hope he is back soon as he has a knack for being around the ball.
Spur
Antonio Allen is listed as the starter. This is one guy you have not heard a lot about. Unsung hero? Let’s hope. Damario Jeffery is #2 there. This could be the question to see who the true fan is if they can name what spot Antonio Allen plays for USC. Test it on Thursday.
CB
Gilmore and Culliver. Knew that. Jimmy Legree listed #2 behind Gilmore and Whitlock listed #2 behind Culliver. Is it me or does Jimmy Legree sound like a preacher?
DT
Byron Jerideau is listed as an “OR” for the #2 slot behind T. Robertson. Love the Big Nasty. And yes that is his nickname.
DE
Like you don’t know….Matthews and Taylor. Expect big things from these two. Chaz Sutton, Byron McKnight and Aldrick Fordham listed as #2’s.
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Well there you have it. What jumps out at you?
