South Carolina Football Preview: Offensive Line/Tight End

Offensive Line/Tight End

     These two positions are getting put together mainly because most people do not care about them or know much about them because they aren't nearly as glamorous as some of the others.  But don't let this lack of credit fool you: the big boys up front are just as important to a team winning as any position on the field.

Justice Cunningham


     The 6'4" senior from Pageland, SC is definitely not a new name for Gamecock football fans.  Cunningham has played in all 40 games over the last three seasons and has made 27 career receptions and even scored a touchdown.  But his receiving ability is not what makes Cunningham so special.  That would be his ability to block in the run game as well as his versatility, which will come in handy when the Cocks use him as a fullback in the fall (much like they used Pat Dimarco two years ago).

Rory Anderson


     Known as "Big Play Buster" last year, Anderson came on great as a freshman for the Gamecocks, having three of his eight catches go for scores.  Standing at 6'5", Anderson has the body to be a big time receiving and blocking threat from the TE position in the SEC (that is if he doesn't spend to much hanging out in Kyle and Drew's room).  I expect to see more big plays from Rory and I hope that the duo of Cunningham and Anderson become valuable assets to Connor Shaw in the passing game as well as to the backfield in the running game.

T.J. Johnson


     The veteran leader on an otherwise young offensive line, Johnson has been a key part to the success of the Cocks over the last three seasons.  Starting all 40 games of his career, Johnson was a third team All-SECer last season and looks to continue this year right where he left off.  Standing at 6'6" and weighing in at almost 320 pounds, T.J. uses his massive frame to clear holes for the vaunted rushing attack of the Gamecocks and to give Connor Shaw time to find receivers down the field.  Look for Johnson to help the young line get their stride and help USC to another great season.

Brandon Shell


     The lone freshman who is projected to start on the line, I'm looking for Shell to have a great season. Redshirted in his first year on campus, the highly touted (Parade All American, Shrine Bowl, Army All American Game, Four Star Recruit by Rivals, 4th best OT in the Country out of high school) tackle has a huge 6'6", 331 pound frame.  If Shell can remain uninjured and can prove mature enough to start in the SEC, I can see him becoming a dominate blocker for the USC offense this season.

     That's all for the hogmollies, next up the D-Line and everyone's favorite Rock Hill citizen (sorry Heath Myers, Rock Hill, hehehe), Jadeveon Clowney.