SEC Power Rankings: Can Auburn Claim The Top Spot?

Aug 28, 2014; Columbia, SC, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks quarterback Dylan Thompson (17) passes the ball during the third quarter against the Texas A&M Aggies at Williams-Brice Stadium. Texas A&M defeated South Carolina 52-28. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports

6. South Carolina

Pre-Season Ranking: 4

Last Week: Lost to Texas A&M

The Good: The best news for the Gamecocks after their drubbing at the hands of Texas A&M on Thursday is that they do not play in the SEC West. That means, the game really didn’t matter in the grand scheme of things. South Carolina still controls their own destiny in the East, and if the Gamecocks can rebound and run the table the rest of the regular season, they will be in Atlanta with a chance to win the SEC.

The Bad: For a team that is expected to compete for a championship behind a strong rushing attack, South Carolina had only 67 rushing yards last week. Mike Davis was hampered with an injury and had only six carries for 15 yards, and the team turned to the passing game after falling behind early. To compete in 2014, the Gamecocks must do a better job running the football.

The Ugly: We knew there would be concerns on defense after losing Jadaveon Clowney and others, but no one expected to see the Gamecocks surrender 680 yards. The Aggies had 511 yards through the air, and outgained South Carolina by more than 100 yards on the ground.

Next Week: vs. East Carolina