re: How much does South Carolina miss Connor Shaw this season?

There is a tendency everywhere for people to think that great players cannot be replaced, but we know that just isn't true. Shaw was a winner, no doubt about it. That does not mean that Thompson won't be a capable replacement, especially with a good OL and a healthy Evans.

In literal terms, I think comparing YPG is meaningless. SC could win the division next year with fewer offensive YPG and nobody would care. However, if the pass offense is more productive but the defense drops off and y'all go 9-3, 8-4, nobody will be saying how great a QB Thompson was.

Besides being a very good QB, Shaw was a leader who found a way to get it done and win. It remains to be seen exactly how that leadership will be replaced, but I have confidence in your coaching staff that they will find a way.

Bottom line, South Carolina will be just as dangerous this year as they were last year, and I think they should be considered the favorite to win the division.