After back-to-back wins against quality opponents, South Carolina (2-0) has emerged as a sleeper in the SEC East. At least, that’s what former ESPN analyst, Brent Musburger believes.

Following the Gamecocks impressive 31-13 victory over the Missouri Tigers on Saturday, the hype train seems to be gaining steam. Musburger also highlighted the impressive turnaround for second-year head coach Will Muschamp.

Considering South Carolina stands atop the East standings, for the time being at least, the pick makes sense.

Muschamp led the Gamecocks to a 6-6 (3-5) regular season record in 2016 before losing to South Florida in the Birmingham Bowl 46-39 in overtime. It wasn’t the season that Muschamp and company were looking for, but things seem to be looking up after wins against NC State and Missouri.

The offense is led by sophomore quarterback Jake Bentley, who has thrown for 402 yards and 4 touchdowns through the air in those two games, while the defense fields an impressive trio at linebacker in T.J. Brunson, Skai Moore and Bryson Allen-Williams. The three have combined for 45 tackles, 4 tackles for loss, a sack and an interception this season.

While the Georgia Bulldogs still look to be the favorites in the SEC East, South Carolina’s impressive start to the season has definitely created a buzz within the conference.

The Gamecocks will welcome the 2-0 Kentucky Wildcats to town this week for another SEC East showdown on Saturday at 6:30 pm.