South Carolina 35, Alabama 21: Gamecocks Take Down the Big Elephant of the SEC

Yes, you read that right: South Carolina Gamecocks 35-Alabama Crimson Tide 21. Home field advantage was huge in Columbia as the 12th man encouraged their underdogs against a team packed with pro prospects. These underdogs were bigger than life as they took down the No. 1 ranked Alabama Crimson Tide  

The Gamecocks were able to hold back the Tide with great coaching, tough defense and special teams, and a surprisingly efficient offense. Specifically on defense they were able to hold Alabama to 36 yards rushing. And the eight drive suffocating sacks were game winners in their own right, as well as contributing to the low rushing total.

On offense, quarterback Stephen Garcia was able to overcome an intentional safety and an interception to have an exceptional game under extreme circumstances. He had 17 completions on 20 attempts for 201 yards and 3 touchdowns. Garcia registered an unreal 208.9 passer rating for the game and lead his team to a huge victory. Tailback Marcus Lattimore rushed for 95 yards and 2 TDs. Wide receiver Alshon Jeffery had a big day with 7 catches for 126 yards and 2 TDs.

But Jeffery didn't score on what could be considered the biggest play of the game. It was a one-handed catch and run that went for 45 yards and gave the Gamecocks first and goal at the Alabama six yard line. That led to a Lattimore touchdown on third and goal from the two. And put South Carolina up 35-21 with 7:37 left in the game From there on the Gamecocks stood their ground on defense and ate up the clock on offense. 

Not to make light of the huge win by South Carolina, but the Tide's loss brings up a couple of questions. Does this prove the SEC is the toughest football conference? Or that Alabama was overrated? After all Alabama was nearly beaten two weeks ago by Arkansas. I'd say the answer to both questions is yes, but only to a limited extent.