SCSU must believe anything can happen

By T&D Sports Writer Travis Boland

When Appalachian State knocked off Michigan in the first week of the college football season, it gave other Football Championship Subdivision (Division I-AA) teams the thought that they could beat anybody. It also struck fear in the hearts of all Football Bowl Subdivision (Division I-A) teams, hoping they weren't going to be the next major upset to be splashed all over SportsCenter.

Now, South Carolina State gets its chance to pull its own major upset over an FBS team, but it's going to take a monumental effort, seeing as you can't sneak up on anyone this season.

The Bulldogs will have to play the perfect game to get the win. Here are a few things they can do to make it happen:

1. South Carolina State will have to spread the USC defense.

The Gamecocks struggled in their first game of the season against Louisiana-Lafayette because of the Ragin' Cajuns' spread-option attack and no-huddle offense. UL-L rushed for 252 yards and was able to control the clock against the defense.

Cleve McCoy and the Bulldogs will have to use the spread attack to their advantage, McCoy is quick enough to be able to run the misdirection plays that can confuse the Gamecocks. Gettting USC to over-commit will be the key.

The offensive line will have to protect against a defensive line that gave Georgia fits last week. Cleve needs to be able to run but not spend all night running for his life.

2. Score early, score often.

Appalachian State was able to beat Michigan by scoring early. They took the lead and were able to hold off a comeback. If the Gamecocks score the first points,

it could be a long night for the Bulldogs. But if State is able to open the game with a touchdown drive, it could set the tone. SCSU is not going to win a defensive struggle the likes of Carolina's win over Georgia, so the Bulldogs will have to put the ball in the end zone as often as possible. The longer SCSU hangs around, the better the chances of pulling the upset.

3. Empty the playbook.

If the Bulldogs can hang tough, then expect to see some razzle-dazzle from Buddy Pough. Why hold on to trick plays if they can lead to a win. Don't hold anything back in this game. Anything you're going to use will be good practice for later in the season. Fake punts, reverses, flea-flickers, whatever ... just use them.

I'm not saying the Bulldogs will beat the Gamecocks, but like we've already seen this season, anything can happen.