South Carolina pulled off a major upset in its 24-21 victory over Tennessee last Saturday. The Gamecocks improved their record to 4-4 (2-4 SEC) and are now two games away from securing bowl eligibility.

But things may be even brighter long-term as South Carolina has won games with several true freshmen in key roles, including starting quarterback Jake Bentley, running back Rico Dowdle and wide receiver Bryan Edwards.

According to 247Sports‘ Barton Simmons, the trio is among the nation’s best group of true freshmen in college football and head coach Will Muschamp deserves credit for having an eye for talent.

Bentley has thrown for 368 yards and four touchdowns on 32 of 46 passing in two appearances. Rather than take a redshirt, the 18-year-old early enrollee has provided a spark to the Gamecock offense in back-to-back wins.

Dowdle rushed for a career-best 127 yards and a touchdown on 27 attempts during Saturday’s win. The Asheville native has totaled 291 yards and three touchdowns on 59 attempts after making his season debut in October.

Bryan Edwards also provided a touchdown during Saturday’s win. The Conway native has totaled 341 yards and two touchdowns on 27 receptions, including a career-best eight catches for 101 yards in his season debut.