There are plenty of candidates on the team who need to emerge for the Gamecocks to regain their flight

[FeatheredCock]

There are plenty of candidates on the team who need to emerge for the Gamecocks to regain their flight pattern. Here are three former 5-star players on the team at the top of that list
Sept. 22, 2022

1. Former 5-star edge rusher Jordan Burch​

He was ticketed to have a breakout season. But through 3 games, the 5-star recruit has just 16 tackles, 7 solo, and 1 sack. After 2 years playing behind the likes of Aaron Sterling and Kingsley Enagbare, Burch had a solid spring and summer and was viewed as the link to keeping an effective pass rush going this season. The Gamecocks’ lack of a consistent pass rush has been a major factor in their inconsistent play.

Even though he just stepped into the spotlight this season, Burch has to improve his game immediately if the defensive unit wants to regain a semblance of respect and consistency over the next few months. He certainly has the talent, but it has to be applied on a regular basis.

2. Former 5-star Quarterback Spencer Rattler​

The high-profile, much-maligned junior needs to step up his game in the next 2 weeks. Rattler has the golden opportunity to redeem himself with some blockbuster numbers, starting against the Charlotte 49ers. He certainly has the ability and needs a fast and productive start this Saturday. Rattler can also get himself back into the NFL Draft scuttlebutt if he can have turnover-free 2 weeks as well as post some impressive numbers with his arm and legs. Rattler needs to do it now.

3. Former 5-star Running back MarShawn Lloyd​

He is another player where the words potential and ability should be magnified. Through 3 games, Lloyd has 75 yards on 27 carries for a paltry 2.8 average per carry. His game-high is 11 carries for 30 yards against Georgia State. Lloyd also has 10 receptions for 107 yards, his best being a 6-catch, 72-yard effort against Arkansas.

The redshirt sophomore began the season billed as the Gamecocks’ lead back who appeared destined for a big season after a productive offseason. Part of his lack of production can fall upon the offensive line as well as play calling, but Lloyd needs to be able to turn the corner better as well as accelerate out of the backfield. He doesn’t seem slowed by a knee injury that shelved him for all of the 2020 season. Like Rattler, Lloyd also will have a major opportunity to post some attractive numbers in the next 2 weeks.