South Carolina Football: Early two-deep 2017 depth chart projection

Offensive Backfield

Running Backs

Starting Running Back: Rico Dowdle
Backups: A.J. Turner, Ty’Son Williams

Rico Dowdle was part of the true freshman tandem backfield the Gamecocks had in 2016. Dowdle averaged 5.7 yards per carry on 133 carries with six rushing touchdowns. His rushing yards and rushing touchdowns were both in the top ten of the FBS for freshmen.

Last year, A.J. Turner had a good redshirt freshman campaign. He rushed for just under 500 yards and had four total touchdowns. Even though Dowdle is definitely the starter, he will have to split reps with Turner and the North Carolina transfer Ty’Son Williams. Muschamp can’t go wrong with who starts.

Quarterback

Starting Quarterback: Jake Bentley
Backup: Michael Scarnecchia

Muschamp has one of the best young quarterbacks in the nation with Jake Bentley. Last year, he took over the team and made them so much better. Jake Bentley threw for 1400 yards, nine touchdowns, and four interceptions. In SEC play, he is 2-1, with a win over ranked Tennessee, and he completes 69% of his passes and has an average passer rating of 153.

Next: 20 CFB quarterbacks with the best chance at NFL success

Backup Michael Scarnecchia will finally get his chance to be the number two quarterback and could be a valued asset to Bentley. It’s Bentley’s show to run, but having a quality backup can be a lifesaver in the physical SEC.