Gamecocks true freshman will play at crucial position Saturday, Muschamp says
Running back by committee situations are common across college football and football at large.
But a right tackle by committee, as South Carolina coach Will Muschamp said will be in play against Tennessee, that’s an unusual one.
The Gamecocks have four offensive line spots settled as they head into their season opener. But Muschamp said he plans to try out three players at the right tackle spot, including true freshman Vershon Lee.
“He’s gonna play some right tackle Saturday night,” Muschamp said. “I mean, those three guys are gonna play in the game in some form or fashion to figure out who we can count on to be the solid starter that position. But those guys give us some flexibility.”
Lee was projected to be an option at guard through much of his recruitment at 6-foot-3, 313 pounds. The coach praised Lee’s feet and the way he moved, and as it appeared the guard depth has grown better, Lee started getting work at the tackle spot.
Jakai Moore and Jaylen Nichols both spent time as starters last season when right tackle Dylan Wonnum was sidelined with an ankle injury. Each has a strong athletic profile and project as potential starters down the way. Wonnum was a true freshman starter on the line two seasons ago, a relative rarity in the sport.
Jazston Turnetine looked like a starter at left tackle coming out of spring, but his consistency seemed to wane in camp. Muschamp said he might rally to push Wonnum back to the right side.
The staff has been excited about the backups on the interior. Former starter Jordan Rhodes is working his way back after opting out with COVID concerns and then opting back in. Columbia area product Wyatt Campbell is working at backup guard, while redshirt freshman Vincent Murphy is the No. 2 center.
