Rapid Reaction: Gamecocks dominated at line of scrimmage, fall to Clemson
Quick thoughts from South Carolina’s 35-17 loss at Clemson, a setback that ended the Gamecocks’ five-game winning streak in the series:
What it means: The Gamecocks are headed to Birmingham or Shreveport as a six-win team after arguably their worst offensive performance of the season.
What I liked: Despite limited touches, Pharoh Cooper was the lone bright spot on offense for South Carolina with a 20-yard touchdown run, two pass completions for 27 yards and a 46-yard catch.
What I didn’t like: South Carolina’s offensive line was torched by the nation’s top-rated defense as quarterback Dylan Thompson was harassed throughout the game, sacked multiple times and pressured countless others. His lost fumble in the early in the second quarter led to Clemson’s second touchdown and a lead it would never relinquish.
Who’s the man: Clemson wideout Artavis Scott set a Palmetto Bowl record with seven catches for 185 yards and two long touchdowns, both coming on jet sweep pop passes from DeShaun Watson. Clemson tailback Wayne Gallman registered 191 yards on 27 totes.
Key play: With a minute remaining in the third quarter trailing by 18 points, the Gamecocks rushed a 4th-and-Goal play inside the 5 and Thompson’s pass intended for Shaq Roland fell incomplete to corner. It highlighted in a nutshell South Carolina’s offensive struggles throughout the day at Memorial Stadium.
What’s next: The Gamecocks await their bowl fate in danger of the first losing season during Steve Spurrier’s tenure.