South Carolina faced many questions in the last week about its down-field passing game. But on the first play from scrimmage, the Gamecocks presented plenty of relief.

QB Ryan Hilinski hit WR Shi Smith on a pass over the middle that Smith took 75 yards as Tennessee defenders grasped for air as he sped away for a touchdown. Even coach Will Muschamp smirked on the sideline after that one.

South Carolina is trying to bounce back from a disappointing loss to Florida in which the officiating had several controversial calls or non-calls. But after the officiating, which Muschamp discussed all week, the biggest topic of conversation was the down-field passing attack as Hilinski missed several deep balls against Florida. There were also drops by the receivers for the first time this season. Muschamp spread the blame around during the week and said the team must find plays that make Hilinski comfortable.

This went a long way to solving those problems and quieting the Neyland Stadium crowd.