re: Looking for a true objective analysis (A&M at South Carolina)

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Here's mine.

1. Keys to the game/key matchups

A&M receivers and QB vs. South Carolina secondary

South Carolina run game vs. A&M front seven

Both teams have key injuries in their weakest areas (A&M's starting SAM is out with a broken clavicle, South Carolina is a MASH unit in the secondary).

2. How South Carolina can win: Simply put, control the game on the ground. If Dylan Thompson is forced to pass to win, he won't have Connor Shaw to bail them out (see the game at Missouri as exhibit A). A&M is going to get their points. If it's a shootout, the gamecocks may not have the firepower to keep up.

3. How A&M can win: Simply put, show significant improvement in the front seven. If Myles Garrett and Zaycovan Henderson are as good as advertised, it will take significant pressure off of the secondary, who was the only bright spot in last year's defense. A Kevin Sumlin offense will get their points. Get enough stops and the offense will do its part.

4. I don't think A&M is good enough to win this game yet...but it will be a lot closer than people think. I'll pick 35-31 South Carolina.

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