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It’s no secret that South Carolina has a shortage of playmakers this season, especially among known commodities. But there is potential, given offensive coordinator Kurt Roper’s preferences.
There is available talent, the question remains when it might arrive, and who will help get it there.
Here are three potential unsung heroes for 2016.
Hayden Hurst, Soph., TE
Size: 6-4, 250 pounds
Skinny: A former minor league baseball player, Hurst was a walk-on last season, and may play his way into an integral role this season. Roper enjoys involving tight ends in the offense, and that may take on a larger presence given the Gamecocks’ lack of go-to wide receivers. He’s made one career start, but last season had eight catches for 106 yards.
Marquavius Lewis, Sr., DL
Size: 6-3, 270 pounds
Skinny: The junior college transfer is the only returning player who started every game last season. He’s expected to begin the season at defensive end, but could move inside. Lewis had three sacks last season, 45 tackles and 4.5 tackles for a loss. His presence should free up room for linebackers Bryson Allen-Williams and Jonathan Walton.
Bryan McClendon, co-OC, WR coach
Skinny: The former Georgia interim coach for the bowl game, McClendon might be overshadowed by Roper, but his temporary promotion at Georgia came when he was not a coordinator.
He has coached running backs for five years, and also served as recruiting coordinator at Georgia. But given the Gamecocks’ roster of young or inexperienced offensive skill players, it’s up to McClendon to develop them.
A former newspaper veteran, Keith Farner is a news manager for Saturday Down South.
