Gamecocks safeties aim to play more aggressive in new defense

The defensive buzzword for South Carolina in 2015 turned out to be the bane for most fans all season: Cover-2.

Much of the time, it had safeties playing far back, and became linked with the bend-but-don’t-break character of the defense that caused great angst. How things shake out this season is uncertain, but the hope is for a different look.

“(Defensive coordinator Travaris Robinson) is definitely, and coach (Will) Muschamp, are definitely aggressive playcallers,” safety D.J. Smith said. “They’re putting us in position to make plays. Other than that, just got to do my assignment wherever I’ll be and I’ll be in the right spot.”

One of the biggest differences is Muschamp’s hope to play what he calls “middle field coverage.” Defensive line coach Lance Thompson explained that means playing only one safety deep and bringing the other one into the box to make the defense more formidable against the run.

Last year’s Gamecocks ranked 100th nationally in yards per carry against FBS opponents, and often had issues with linebackers having to do too much against run fakes.

Muschamp has warned talent might dictate playing a more conservative style, but his hope is things will be different on the back end.

“The safeties are more versatile,” cornerback and part-time safety Chris Lammons said. “Some come down. Some stay back.

“It all depends on what the offense gives us. If you’re on that side, then you would have to come down. If you’re on the opposite side, then you might not want to come down. It all depends.”

The most common safeties pair has been Chaz Elder and Smith, plus former strong safety Jordan Diggs at nickel.

Diggs echoed Lammons on the unit’s versatility. Smith said there should be more man coverage against inside receivers, not just tight ends as was the case last season.

It’s change, but the Muschamp staff has a history of defensive success, and that’s something the players have faith in.

“I feel like it’ll definitely keep offenses playing us honest,” Diggs said. “Not really knowing what we’re going to do. We’re going to be able to disguise and really hold to our looks and just kind of have that little surprise element when we’re out there playing. Main thing is we have great coaches who know this scheme and have played in this scheme for a long time.”

This story was originally published August 28, 2016 at 5:26 PM with the headline "Gamecocks safeties aim to play more aggressive in new defense."