Quick thoughts from South Carolina’s 23-20 win over Florida:

What it means: The Gamecocks kept their bowl hopes alive with a big win. South Carolina is one game away from making another bowl game appearance under Steve Spurrier, despite a disappointing start to the season. After suffering several late-game collapses, it was the Gamecocks that benefited from a fourth quarter comeback.

What I liked: South Carolina’s special teams. The Gamecocks blocked a crucial field goal late in the fourth quarter and a punt to set up their game tying touchdown with seconds remaining. South Carolina’s defense also exceeded expectations, holding Florida scoreless in the fourth quarter.

What I didn’t like: The Gamecocks had several opportunities to take the lead, but failed to capitalize. The late game heroics wouldn’t have been necessary if South Carolina took advantage of missed opportunities. But despite their flaws, the Gamecocks had their most balanced performance of the season against an SEC opponent.

Who’s the man: Carlton Heard. The redshirt junior provided a game saving punt block that kept South Carolina in contention. The Gamecocks took possession on the Florida 34-yard line and capped off their drive with a Mike Davis touchdown.

Key plays: Heard’s punt block was the biggest play for South Carolina. Davis’ touchdown was also crucial, despite being one of the ugliest option scores in the history of football. Quarterback Dylan Thompson bobbled the snap and Davis fumbled the pitch in the end zone before recovering. In overtime, the Gamecocks forced Florida to a field goal before answering with a game-winning quarterback keeper.

What’s next: South Carolina hosts South Alabama next weekend. The Gamecocks will face in-state rival Clemson the following week.