Georgia at South Carolina: Keys, predictions, and players to watch

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ATHENS, GA – NOVEMBER 21: Uga X is officially “collared” prior to the game between the Georgia Bulldogs and the Georgia Southern Eagles at Sanford Stadium on November 21, 2015 in Athens, Georgia. (Photo by Daniel Shirey/Getty Images) /

Prediction

Georgia is going to put up a number of points in this one, the question is whether or not South Carolina can keep pace. Quarterback Jake Bentley gives them a chance, but the Gamecocks need to find a matchup advantage that doesn’t show up on paper.

If cornerback Tyrique McGhee isn’t available, or is far from 100 percent, South Carolina will have an opportunity to match either Deebo Samuel or Shi Smith against true freshman Tyson Campbell. With Deandre Baker locking down the other side of the field, expect Bentley to attack the opposite side, regardless of who the receiver or cornerback are. The problem with that is Georgia will shade their safeties to that side of the field to dissuade Bentley from locking in on one side.

South Carolina should keep this game close early as both teams are still searching for an identity on offense. However, it’s going to take a mistake, or multiple mistakes by the Georgia offense for this game to remain tight down the stretch. Georgia is just too talented on both sides of the ball, and after falling in the National Championship Game last season, are hungry to get back to the finals.

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The Bulldogs simply aren’t a team that’s going to take an opponent lightly and slip up, especially to a fellow SEC East school. Georgia wins this one going away.

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