Gamecocks coordinators Marcus Satterfield (offense) and Clayton White (defense) met with the media, Wednesday, as they continue preparing South Carolina for this week’s home game against Charlotte.
Both units are licking wounds following a 48-7 thrashing at the hands of top-ranked Georgia. The Gamecocks offense has struggled mightily on third down, ranking 123rd nationally in third-down conversion percentage through three games. Their inability to sustain drives against Georgia compounded the pressure on a defense playing shorthanded due to injury. But quarterback Spencer Rattler and the offense has a chance to shine, Saturday, as they will match up with a 49ers defense giving up more than 45 points/game. Perhaps, this will be the breakout game for the Gamecocks rushing attack, which has not been a major factor in either of USC’s losses. South Carolina’s veteran line and talented stable of backs will square off with a defense that surrendered 303 yards on the ground to William & Mary earlier this season.
Clayton White’s unit hasn’t escaped scrutiny, either, ranking 125th in rush defense and 113th in scoring defense. White told the assembled media that the effort has been there, but communication, getting his defenders’ eyes in the right place and tackling are areas where he’s looking for improvement.
South Carolina (1-2) will look to even its record when Charlotte pays a visit to Williams-Brice Stadium for a 7:30 p.m. kickoff, Saturday.
