The South Carolina Gamecocks were on the verge of a College Football Playoff appearance in 2024. Here’s a look at what went wrong during their season, with the Bad moments from 2024.
The Gamecocks finished the regular season with a respectable 9-3 record, even on the cusp of earning a spot in the College Football Playoff or at least securing a place among the final 12 teams competing for a title. However, their season ended with a 9-4 record after a bowl game loss to Illinois. While the season had its share of positives, here are the key areas where the Gamecocks faltered.
The Bad From the South Carolina 2024 Season
Turnovers: Despite flashes of promise, the Gamecocks struggled with consistency, particularly in the turnover department. They committed 21 turnovers, ranking 10th highest in the country, which drastically reduced their margin for error. In every game they lost during the regular season, they committed the most turnovers. Their worst performance came against Alabama, when they lost four turnovers, including a botched snap by LaNoris Sellers that led to a go-ahead touchdown for Alabama. For South Carolina to succeed moving forward, they must address this turnover problem.
Laying an Egg vs Ole Miss: Every team has an off game, and South Carolina’s worst came on October 5th against Ole Miss. Despite having more time of possession and first downs — typically indicators of a competitive game — they were dominated in every other aspect. Ole Miss’s defensive line, led by Walter Nolen, overpowered the Gamecocks’ offensive line, stifling their rhythm and forcing two turnovers. South Carolina was outplayed in every phase, losing 27-3. If the Gamecocks want to contend at the highest level, they cannot afford to be outclassed like this, especially with the challenges of the SEC schedule.
Getting Robbed Against LSU: The LSU game might be remembered as the one that slipped away for South Carolina in 2024. After a strong start, the Gamecocks lost their momentum when LaNoris Sellers was injured by a sack at the end of the first half and did not return. The offense stalled, especially after backup QB Robbie Ashford took over. The only offensive touchdown of the half came from a 66-yard explosive play by Rocket Sanders. Despite offensive struggles, the Gamecocks appeared to have sealed the win after standout defensive back Nick Emmanwori scored a pick-six, seemingly putting them ahead 40-29. However, the touchdown was called back due to a controversial roughing the passer penalty on Kyle Kennard, who had pushed LSU QB Garrett Nussmeier during the return. The penalty shifted momentum in LSU’s favor, and South Carolina’s offense failed to score again. LSU won 36-33 after South Carolina kicker Alex Herrera missed a game-tying field goal. If not for the questionable penalty, the Gamecocks’ season might have ended on a very different note.
