Offensive Position Grades: South Carolina at No. 20 Missouri
After putting together their most complete performance of the season against the Florida Gators in week seven, South Carolina's offense saw some reoccurring issues show up once again in their week eight-bout on the road against the Missouri Tigers. This contest was one where everyone had their share of mistakes, but what ongoing trends made things snowball for this side of the ball on Saturday afternoon?
Quarterback: C+
This game was in no way Spencer Rattler's fault, but Rattler didn't have his best game either, and there are many contributing factors to that. He didn't have much help from the offensive line in this game, and the wideouts continue to struggle to get open down the field. However, there were moments when Rattler wasn't Rattler-esque in this game. He had a better second half, but it wasn't enough.
Running Backs: C
The backs had a pretty average day. Mario Anderson Jr. continues to be a bright spot, especially with the run blocking not being as good as it was last weekend against the Florida Gators. The backs were involved more in the passing game as well, which we stated on film could be done. However, the lack of execution on screens didn't help.
Offensive Line: D+
It was a tale of two halves for this position group, but they seemingly regressed when looking at the strides they made against Florida. Pass protection was again a notable issue, and they couldn't consistently create holes in the run game. This unit and the team desperately need to get healthy, as this unit has had a different starting group in every game this season.
Wideouts/Tight End: C-
It continues to be the same story on a different week for this group. While Nyckoles Harbor is showing he can be a great No. 2 option out wide, he's still learning and growing in Dowell Loggains' offense. From an overall standpoint, this group is still struggling to create space and make plays. It's one thing to get help through the scheme, but this group is still struggling when they need to make plays downfield.
Nyck Harbor in pre-game warmups (14th Oct., 2023)
Fisher Brewer
This offense has been plagued with injuries, and while that's not easy to overcome, they must find ways for players to step up and overcome those adversities. The road doesn't get any easier as they head to Texas A&M next weekend, who is extremely good on the defensive side of the ball.
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