When UT has ball

The Vols have made a living running the football under coach Phil Fulmer, but this year has been an exception. Ranked next to last in the league in rushing, Fulmer blames his lack of a big passing game for the running struggles. Tailback Arian Foster is averaging just 34 yards per game over the last six contests as defenses are loading up in the box. Quarterback Nick Stephens has thrown for 679 yards and four touchdowns with no picks in four starts after he replaced an ineffective Jonathan Crompton.

Stephens will be tested against the stingy USC defense still ranked among the nation’s best. The Gamecock ‘D’ did give up two late scores against LSU after being on the field for much of the second half because of the offense’s inability to move the ball. The Vols, however, don’t have the bruising power game of old.

Edge: USC

When USC has ball

Quarterback Stephen Garcia will start once again but Chris Smelley could see time if Garcia doesn’t move the ball through the air. The freshman is the team’s second leading rusher and will use his legs against a Vol defense ranked fourth in the league and capable of stopping the run. That shouldn’t be a problem against a terrible rushing offense, so UT will try to get pressure up front against a struggling USC offensive line.

Edge: UT

Special teams

Punter Brittion Colquitt comes from a family of strong legs and is a crucial part of Fulmer’s team, averaging 45.3 yards per punt over three games. Kicker Daniel Lincoln has hit 8-of-15 field goals.

USC kicker Ryan Succop has attempted more field goals (21) than anyone in the nation. The Gamecocks’ punting has been largely ineffective, but the kickoff coverage is the best in the SEC, while returner Captain Munnerlyn can score touchdowns.

Edge: USC

Bottom line

A loss today would all but end Tennessee’s hopes of making a bowl while the Gamecocks could become bowl eligible and be one step closer to locking up a bid. Neither coach is happy with their offenses’ production so that’s where the pressure will fall. A defensive battle is expected, as both squads don’t give up a lot of yards. While the Gamecocks have the advantage of playing at home, USC has only beaten the Vols three times in 26 tries. With no running game, the Gamecocks will have to win with their quarterbacks. But if the offensive line doesn’t hold up, the Vols could squeak one out. Luckily for Spurrier, he’s got the defense to keep that from happening.

Prediction: USC 17, Tennessee 13