Texas A&M Football: 3 bold predictions vs. South Carolina in Week 10

1. Pass rush will dominate

While South Carolina wide receiver Shi Smith has the potential to have a big game and his first multiple-touchdown performance, the rest of the offense might not be as efficient.

The Aggies rank 17th in the nation (second in the SEC) in rushing yards allowed per game (104.8). This is a defense that can get into the backfield consistently as they have accounted for 30 tackles for loss and 14 sacks in five games this year.

Defensive end Michael Clemons leads the team in tackles for loss (4.5) and sacks (4). There are eight players for the Aggies that have accounted for a sack this season. Senior middle linebacker Buddy Johnson has been one of the most impactful players as he leads the team in total tackles (50), solo tackles (24) and forced fumbles (2) as he also accounted for four tackles for loss and two sacks.

The Gamecocks’ offensive line has struggled significantly in keeping defenders out of the backfield. South Carolina has allowed 16 sacks so far this season. It has only been able to convert 40 percent of its third-down attempts. It will be difficult for Gamecocks running back Kevin Harris to get solid production against this front-seven of the Aggies.

If the Gamecocks want to develop their passing game and give Collin Hill some positive momentum, the offensive line will have to keep the pocket clean. Texas A&M pass rushers like Clemons and defensive tackle Bobby Brown III will have very productive games for the Aggies against a struggling offensive line and quarterback of South Carolina.