BYB Top 25 Countdown - #5 South Carolina Gamecocks

No other player than Johnny Football is as big a star as Jadeveon Clowney. For the time being though, all of the hype around Clowney comes from his play on the field. Sure, there was intriguing talk about a meeting with Jay Z but the meet did not violate NCAA rules and meeting a rap legend is an opportunity most would not pass up, despite what it means for his future representation.



The hit Clowney had in the Outback Bowl against Michigan was ESPN’s top play for months and was only ushered out of its place by a touchdown run by a child with cancer in Nebraska’s spring game. No in game play in any sport in recent memory captured our attention like Clowney’s hit.

The junior defensive end spearheads a talented defense that returns four other starters, including overshadowed defensive line mate Kelcy Quarles who could very well join Clowney on the All-SEC first team defensive line. The Gamecocks also return three starting defensive backs who should benefit from Clowney instilling fear in at least three opposing quarterbacks by his count. That number will grow this season.

It’s not like Steve Spurrier to be overshadowed but that what has Clowney has done to his sneaky good offense. Sure, the Gamecocks aren’t going to be confused for Oregon anytime soon but Connor Shaw is effective running the zone read and has the ability to hit open passers.

No shoes? No shirt? No Spurrier

Dylan Thompson will pitch in quarterback in more traditional passing situations and both QBs have a good group of undersized targets in returning starter Bruce Ellington and juniors Damiere Byrd and Nick Jones.

The offensive line returns four starters who will be counted on to open holes for running backs Mike Davis and Brandon Wilds who will be replacing Marcus Lattimore.

The trip to Georgia Sept. 7 will be an early barometer for this Gamecock squad but they will be fortunate as the Bulldogs travel to play Clemson the week before and could be worn out. The middle of the year is filled with easily winnable games so any loss before the Nov. 16 date with Florida in Columbia would be a true slip up.

The season finale rivalry game with Clemson will be testy given Clowney’s assertion that Tiger QB Tajh Boyd is afraid of him but the Gamecocks have won the last four against Clemson. I have South Carolina at 9-0-3.