3 days until the Gamecocks play: 3 ways Mike Bobo’s offense is different
The biggest differentiator for South Carolina’s season, should it improve in 2020, is going to be an offense that climbs out of the cellar.
The Gamecocks brought in a new leading hand in Mike Bobo, who in turn brought in the new starting quarterback in Collin Hill. Last year’s team, under a different coordinator, finished 105th nationally in yards per play and points per game.
If Bobo’s stylistic change can create a change in production, it will be because of a few reasons:
1. A diverse and downhill running game
In the Will Muschamp era, the Gamecocks have sometimes had solid passing games, but the ground game always came in fits and starts. By the end of last season, they were basically relying on one concept, and when teams started blowing it up, there wasn’t much counter. One has to go back to the second half of Muschamp’s first season to find when the running game carried substantial weight. Bobo brings a diverse set of concepts and will reintegrate some two-back looks after adding a fullback this offseason.
2. The heavy play-actions and shot plays
Bobo’s Colorado State offenses were, to a degree, wide receiver-based (that’s where the talent was) and they weren’t shy about going deep. Max protect looks out of run fakes are relatively common, often sending just two receivers deep and letting them work against one-on-one coverage. It remains to be seen what the team has in terms of reliable receivers. If they can get there, the Gamecocks will push the ball vertically.
3. A steady, seasoned hand
Bryan McClendon was on his first go as an offensive coordinator, figuring things out with an SEC squad and, last year, a freshman quarterback. Bobo has been calling plays since late 2006. He’s got a strong feel for play-sequencing and how to work concepts together. He’s adapted from Georgia talent to Colorado State talent. That background doesn’t guarantee success, but it does mean a different kind of guidance and vision of the team.
South Carolina Gamecocks’ 2020 football schedule
Sept. 26: home vs. Tennessee, 7:30 pm (SEC Network)
Oct. 3: at Florida, noon (ESPN)
Oct. 10: at Vanderbilt
Oct. 17: home vs. Auburn
Oct. 24: at LSU
Oct. 31: OPEN
Nov. 7: home vs. Texas A&M, 7:30 pm (ESPN or SEC Network)
Nov. 14: at Ole Miss
Nov. 21: home vs. Missouri
Nov. 28: home vs. Georgia
Dec. 5: at Kentucky
