Weslye Saunders 'Temporarily' Suspended, Where Do Gamecocks Turn?

As South Carolina nears the start of its season, one of its "critical" pieces are now going to be missing in action.  Surprisingly, it has nothing to do with the ongoing NCAA investigations. 

According to reports, Weslye lied to coaches about why he was late to Saturday's practice.  He arrived shortly before the scrimmage, missing practice and meetings. His response to questioning was that he was talking with NCAA officials. 

After digging, the coaches quickly discovered that it was not true. 

The Gamecocks are now going to rely on Justice Cunningham and former fullback Pat DiMarco. Both are very capable players, and combined can contribute as much (if not more) then Saunders. 

Justice Cunningham has had an excellent spring, and is an outstanding blocking tight end.  At 6'3" and close to 270 pounds, Cunningham has power, and has shown soft hands during practice and scrimmages. He was the winner of the Steve Sisk Outstanding Blocker award for the spring.

Pat DiMarco is one of the hardest working players on the team.  The team captain, who was named the offensive player of the spring, has the offensive ability to be an explosive receiver.  Also, he is a competent and hard-nosed blocker. 

Some may say that South Carolina will miss the potential explosiveness that Weslye Saunders brings to the table. 

However, the work ethic of the two players waiting to step in will ensure that the tight end position will be fine, regardless of how long Saunders is out.