As the "Retired Ball Coach" would say, it's currently talking season. Talking season means we get to make all the fun predictions for the upcoming season (and talk as much trash as we want to). As of today, the Gamecocks are undefeated and heading into a new season with new coaches, and a sense of urgency.
So, let's see how the season will unwind:
@ Vanderbilt
Vanderbilt’s offense has stagnated the past few years. Vanderbilt is also the only SEC win the Gamecocks picked up last year (and the only W in Coach Shawn Elliott’s head coaching career). Look for a balanced attack, which has a chance to lead to a blowout for the Gamecocks.
Result: 31-10 Gamecocks
@ Mississippi State
The last time these two teams met was in 2013 - the Gamecocks’ winningest quarterback versus the Bulldogs’ winningest quarterback. The Gamecocks had the likes of Connor Shaw, Bruce Ellington, Jadeveon Clowney, Victor Hampton, and not to mention the HBC roaming the sidelines. This will also be Mississippi State’s second game of the season, just coming off a home opener against South Alabama. The Bulldogs will be trying to find a leader on the offense, and the Gamecocks will be testing the limits of McElwain’s abilities. Count on Elliot Fry to be the difference maker in this battle of inexperienced quarterbacks.
Result: 17-14 Gamecocks
vs. ECU
The first home game of the season. A 4:00 P.M. kickoff. This will be the first non-noon game the Gamecocks have played in nearly a year (vs./@ LSU had an afternoon kickoff). Expect the home crowd ready to see Coach Muschamp start his first game at home with a W. Gamecock nation will be loud and a difference maker in this blowout win for Coach Boom and the crew. This game is also where the defense finally shows up.
Result: 42-0 Gamecocks
@ Kentucky
The Gamecocks actually have a losing streak to Kentucky. And no, this is not basketball season. The Gamecocks hope to avenge a loss that sent the 2014 edition of the Gamecocks spiraling towards 7-6 and 3-9 seasons. This is where the Gamecocks hope to right the ship against a Kentucky team trying to prove its competing for the East title.
Result: 28-25 Gamecocks
vs. Texas A&M
Remember two years ago when the Aggies first came to Columbia? They had their “Midnight Yell” on our Statehouse grounds, and we were the No. 9 team in the country? Well, here’s the Gamecock’s shot at revenge and finally picking up a win in the A&M series. Coach Sumlin’s seat may get a bit warmer after a loss to Coach Boom’s fourth straight SEC victory donning the Garnet and Black. Hold tight though, because this one will be a Barn Burner.
Result: 49-45 Gamecocks
vs. Georgia
Last year, the Gamecocks were embarrassed between the hedges thanks to the likes of Nick Chubb. Kirby Smart and Will Muschamp, two former (national championship winning) defensive coordinators for Nick Saban will be matched up in a defensive slug fest. The Gamecocks specialist have something special going on this season, so expect the first ever overtime game between the Gamecocks and Bulldogs — just because you thought the 2014 edition of this game couldn’t get any closer.
Result: 6-3 (OT) Gamecocks
Bye Week
The young, inexperienced Gamecocks are pulling off a miracle. Coach Boom has led the Gamecocks to a record of 6-0 (5-0), with only three remaining conference games. Coach Muschamp is making a strong case for SEC Coach of the Year.
vs. UMass
Barring a complete meltdown, the Gamecocks cruise through this game in near-record fashion. Muschamp wants to prove he knows how to coach offenses, too.
Result: 62-9 Gamecocks
vs. Tennessee
The Gamecocks not only break the losing streak to Kentucky, but also end a three-game skid to Tennessee. The past three match-ups of these two squads has been close and decided in the final minutes of the game. This game will be no different. Nuñez has finally made the transition to receiver, and Edwards is lighting up opponent’s defense. Thanks to McElwain, the Gamecocks pull out a close one at home.
Result: 13-10 Gamecocks
vs. Missouri
What is it with this team and losing streaks? It seems like not that long ago, the Gamecocks shocked the nation by beating the No. 5, undefeated Missouri Tigers on the road in double OT. Well, unfortunately, Missouri returns the favor and extends their winning streak to three.
Result: 14-28 Missouri
@ Florida
The Gamecocks (8-1, 6-1) face off against Muschamp’s old team, Florida (8-1, 6-1). In this barn burner, the Gamecocks and Gators go back and forth. Muschamp pulls out the big guns in this game, and makes Florida regret firing him. The Gamecocks put the Gators away late. This one is for the East title.
Result: 31-21 Gamecocks
vs. Western Carolina
Easy win — this team doesn’t run the triple-option.
Result: 56-14 Gamecocks
@ Clemson
Clemson (11-0) just came off of an epic season in which they lost by a handful to the Tide for the National Championship. They hope to continue that run in 2016. However, the first matchup between Coach Boom and Dabo isn’t favorable for the Tigers. Tiger fans aren’t going to want to step foot on their field after this tragic defeat.
RESULT: 42-17 Gamecocks
Regular Season Final: 11-1, (7-1 SEC) — The Gamecocks are going to Atlanta.
