This weekend marks a significant face-off as the Florida Atlantic Owls head to Columbia to challenge the South Carolina Gamecocks. The Owls are coming off a cozy week. It gave them much time to strategize after a tough game against Nebraska earlier in the month.

The last confrontation between these teams was back in 2021 when the Gamecocks emerged victorious with a convincing 45-6 win. So, many fans are cracking their brains trying to predict what we will face this time.

What to Expect in the 2024 Showdown?

Both teams boast experienced coaches known for winning national championships, adding a layer of intensity to the game. Florida Atlantic’s coach, reminiscent of the legendary Howard Schnellenberger of the 1983 Miami team, is on the hunt for a significant upset. With a pivotal game against Ole Miss on the horizon, the Gamecocks might experiment with new strategies and player rotations early on.

For South Carolina, Coach Spurrier might take this opportunity to trial new players in various positions, aiming to build a solid lead early on. This approach would allow the team to rotate players without much pressure, ideally leading to a comfortable win. However, overlooking the Owls could be dangerous, especially considering the unexpected challenges posed last week against Georgia.

Defensively, Florida Atlantic boasts a strong secondary, though they face challenges elsewhere, depending on Josh Savidge to disrupt South Carolina’s running game. Offensively, quarterback Rusty Smith, supported by Alfred Morris and Cortez Gent, seeks to elevate his game. Conversely, South Carolina plans a balanced offensive strategy, with quarterback Garcia expected to throw for over 200 yards, complemented by a potent running attack. After a disappointing performance against Georgia, the Gamecocks’ defense, guided by Ellis Johnson, is determined to prove their spirit.

Key Factors to Watch

South Carolina is set to demonstrate refined gameplay with fewer penalties and more robust tackling on special teams. While FAU will attempt to leverage their passing game, South Carolina’s defense is expected to dominate, potentially forcing turnovers that could change the game’s pace. With strategic player rotations and a strong start, South Carolina is predicted to secure a victory with a final score of 34-10, leaving fans optimistic about the season ahead.