SEC Power Rankings, Week 2: SEC West gets four teams in top five
![](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/0a28a1495b1520c303c18d1a5db13af09d488f557bc5523287c914602ef19c45.jpg)
Sep 3, 2015; Charlotte, NC, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks defensive tackle Kelsey Griffin (94) celebrates with teammates during the second quarter against the North Carolina Tar Heels at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports
However, it wasn’t a perfect performance by any means. South Carolina allowed 440 yards of total offense, and was often pushed around on the line of scrimmage to the tune of 232 North Carolina rushing yards.
Offensively, Connor Mitch was erratic early, finished 9-for-22 passing with 122 yards and one touchdown and added 44 rushing yards on ten carries, but had to be replaced by backup Perry Orth because of a hand/thumb injury in the fourth quarter. Mitch returned to the game, but because the injury occurred on his throwing hand, it will certainly something to keep an eye on heading into next week’s SEC opener.
Star receiver Pharoh Cooper did a bit of everything, as usual. The all-purpose performer had three catches for 45 yards and a touchdown, gained 20 yards on four carries out of the “Wildcock,” and was 1-for-2 passing for -6 yards.
Next Game: Saturday September 12 vs. Kentucky
" >
11
S. Carolina Gamecocks 1-0 (0-0)
Last week: Beat North Carolina 17-13
Last rank: 12th
A win is a win, and it though certainly wasn’t pretty, South Carolina won Thursday night in Charlotte. Running back Shon Carson scored on a 48-yard touchdown run early in the fourth quarter to take a 17-13 lead, and the Gamecocks defense held on for the Week 1 victory over North Carolina.
There were certainly a few very good signs. Linebacker Skai Moore intercepted two passes in the end zone – the second coming with just 3:29 left to play, which practically sealed the victory. The Gamecocks picked off three passes during the game, and did not have a turnover on offense. South Carolina also sacked Tar Heels quarterback Marquise Williams four times.
However, it wasn’t a perfect performance by any means. South Carolina allowed 440 yards of total offense, and was often pushed around on the line of scrimmage to the tune of 232 North Carolina rushing yards.
Offensively, Connor Mitch was erratic early, finished 9-for-22 passing with 122 yards and one touchdown and added 44 rushing yards on ten carries, but had to be replaced by backup Perry Orth because of a hand/thumb injury in the fourth quarter. Mitch returned to the game, but because the injury occurred on his throwing hand, it will certainly something to keep an eye on heading into next week’s SEC opener.
Star receiver Pharoh Cooper did a bit of everything, as usual. The all-purpose performer had three catches for 45 yards and a touchdown, gained 20 yards on four carries out of the “Wildcock,” and was 1-for-2 passing for -6 yards.
Next Game: Saturday September 12 vs. Kentucky
Next: Florida