South Carolina Versus Clemson: Defensive Line Gives SC Edge over Tigers

Tajh Boyd has proved a great deal over the course of his first full season as a starter.  He has proven to be a valuable Clemson Tiger, a touchdown-maker and a good leader.

He's also proven that when you rattle his chain, he plays like Stephen Garcia.  Wait—too soon?

The past three games for Clemson have shown opposing teams exactly what to do to Boyd to make him throw up consistent ducks. 

Apply the heat, and protect the middle of the field.  It's that easy.  If you can apply any kind of pressure on him, you have a great chance to beat the Clemson Tigers.

Luckily, that's exactly what the Gamecocks do very well. 

You know Jadeveon Clowney, Melvin Ingram, Devin Taylor and the rest of the Gamecocks' stellar front are just licking their chops ready to attack a Clemson offensive line that is injured and looks like a turnstile at this point.  Boyd is probably already having nightmares about getting his face planted in the dirt about 100 times at Williams Brice Stadium. 

If he isn't, then he should be.  South Carolina is one of the best in the country at sacks, quarterback hurries and creating turnovers. 

The Tigers will have a difficult time moving the ball against a Carolina defense that currently ranks fifth overall, and has proven all season to be a consistently good unit. 

Add to the chaos a corner in Stephon Gilmore who has almost mastered the corner blitz, and you have the makings of a blowout for the Gamecocks. 

If South Carolina's defensive line plays up to par, and Connor Shaw and the running game can score and grind time off the clock, don't expect this game to be close. 

It's great to be a Gamecock!