Grading the Gamecocks: Texas A&M

South Carolina had its chances but ultimately couldn’t come through when it mattered most.

The Gamecocks fell to Texas A&M 30-17 on Saturday. The struggles continue as they move to 2-6 overall.

Now it’s time to grade each position group and the coaching from this weekend.

Spencer Rattler: C-

Let’s call it for what it is: Rattler didn’t play too well. He’s been good this year but these last few games have been a little shaky.

And say what you will about the blocking in front of him, some of his decisions weren’t wise against the A&M defense. Rattler had three intentional grounding penalties in the second quarter that shifted all momentum in the game.

Overall, Rattler finished 20-for-33 with 176 yards and a touchdown. He just needs to be better.

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Running back: B

For how tough it is to run against this Aggie defense, South Carolina did what it could. Mario Anderson had some nice runs, finishing with 72 yards on 16 carries. And Dakereon Joyner had a rushing touchdown.

It’s tough to see how much Juju McDowell has struggled, though. Outside of one good game, he hasn’t really been that impactful in the ground game.

Wide receiver/tight end: B-

Gamecock fans will be really happy to see their guy Nyck Harbor got a lot of touches. He had six catches for 59 yards, giving them a glimpse of what he can be down the road.

Other than that, not much to ride home about. Joshua Simon had a nice touchdown grab later in the game. The hope is that Xavier Legette and Trey Knox will be healthier next week.

Offensive line: D

At this point, you have to feel bad for this group. 11 offensive lineman are down with injuries right now. It’s a thin group.

That said, the starting five out there on Saturday did what they could. But it wasn’t good enough. Rattler was sacked four times. Nick Gargiulo had an awful snap that caused a turnover on downs.

It’s been a rough year for the offensive line. But Vershon Lee and Cason Henry could be back next week, which would be a huge upgrade.

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Defensive line: B+

What a surprise this group was at the start of the game. Max Johnson was sacked three times in the first quarter, nearly getting hit every play.

Changes were made in scheme and that was a smart move by the coaching staff. Now, the defense has to put it together for four quarters. Because after the strong start, things went a little sour.

Linebackers: B+

Once again, Debo Williams was all over the field and led the team in tackles. He even had one tackle for loss.

Stone Blanton did alright, finishing with six tackles. But let’s give some credit to Jaron Willis and Bam Martin-Scott, who stepped up and played well.

Shane Beamer said he had specific packages made for those two, and they executed very well. They have to continue to be impactful for this defense to do more good things.

Secondary: D

For as good as the defense was at times, the secondary wasn’t overly impressive. There were too many plays where A&M receivers had enough space to make some catches and break out for big gains.

If there’s a play that perfectly represents how the secondary did, just watch Ainias Smith’s touchdown catch in the second quarter. He was left wide-open and scooted past five defenders for the score.

Special teams: F

What has happened to this once amazing unit? Every game, it seemed like the special teams made a big play to change the game. That’s just not happening this year.

South Carolina should’ve had a blocked punt but couldn’t do so. Kai Kroeger wasn’t great with a few short punts that put A&M in good field position. Mitch Jeter did have a 49-yard field goal, though.

Coaching: C

For what it’s worth, Clayton White called a pretty good game defensively. Outside of one bad quarter, the defense didn’t allow a touchdown for three quarters and held the Aggies to field goals.

Dowell Loggains’ play calling wasn’t too shabby either. It wasn’t always the best but not bad. When the offense is driving down the field, there just needs to be more shots taken. Less east to west and more north to south.

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