Today was the dawn of the Shawn Elliott era for South Carolina, and whether his tenure lasts for six weeks or for years into the future, his first game in charge of the Gamecocks resulted in a 19-10 victory. Vanderbilt was its own worst enemy with five turnovers, which South Carolina converted into nine points in front of a home crowd at Williams-Brice Stadium.

What it means: For the Gamecocks, its a first SEC win and a climb toward bowl eligibility. It’s a steep hill, as the Gamecocks will likely be an underdog in four of their last five games. For the Commodores, its a game that got away — and an 0-3 start in league play.

What I liked: South Carolina began the game with all of the energy and enthusiasm you might expect from a team with a new interim head coach. The Gamecocks forced a turnover on the third play from scrimmage, which is about the best start for which they could have hoped. Vanderbilt, to its credit, allowed only a field goal after giving up the ball on its own 24-yard line. After the opening turnover, the Commodores did a good job of playing with composure and riding out that early wave of momentum in the first quarter.

What I didn’t like: There were times when both teams showed why they reside in the cellar of the SEC East. Early in the fourth quarter, Gamecock quarterback Perry Orth threw an ill-advised pass that was picked off by Jahmel McIntosh. Instead of cashing in on good field position down 13-10, Vanderbilt’s Johnny McCrary threw an equally bad pass on the very next play which was intercepted by Chris Lammons. McCrary tossed three interceptions on the day, and that’s tough for a team to overcome. There were plenty of points left on the field in this game, and frankly either school could have won by two touchdowns.

Who’s the man: South Carolina’s Pharoh Cooper hauled in seven passes for 160 yards and a touchdown. Skai Moore also notched his fourth interception of the year and a fumble recovery in the fourth quarter for the Gamecocks. Vanderbilt’s Darrius Sims piled up 104 yards rushing and another 22 yards receiving to pace the Commodore attack.

Key play: Vanderbilt — South Carolina’s T.J. Holloman was flagged for targeting after an incomplete pass on a third-and-goal play late in the second quarter. The foul not only resulted in Holloman’s disqualification, but it kept the Vanderbilt drive going, and the Commodores cashed in on a Johnny McCrary touchdown pass to Caleb Scott three plays later to put the visitors in front, 7-6.

South Carolina — Trailing 10-6 in the third quarter, South Carolina faced a third and 5 from its own 22. Perry Orth found Cooper on a slant route and, after making a man miss, he raced 78 yards for a score. The play re-energized the crowd and sparked his teammates as well.

What’s next: South Carolina (3-4, 1-4 SEC) will have a bye next week while Vanderbilt (2-4, 0-3) will host Missouri next Saturday.