South Carolina Football Spring Game 2017: 5 things to watch for

By John Buhler | Mar 27, 2017

Nov 5, 2016; Columbia, SC, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks quarterback Jake Bentley (4) drops back to pass as running back A.J. Turner (25) starts his route against the Missouri Tigers during the second quarter at Williams-Brice Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-USA TODAY Sports /

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Nov 26, 2016; Clemson, SC, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks quarterback Jake Bentley (4) passes the ball during the first quarter against the Clemson Tigers at Clemson Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joshua S. Kelly-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Jake Bentley’s progression as a passer

Muschamp will have the defense rocking in Williams-Brice this fall. Moore’s return to the field will energize the entire defensive front-seven. If Wolford can mold this offensive line, South Carolina should be in pretty good shape for a promising 2017 season.

However, that is all contingent on sophomore quarterback Jake Bentley’s progression as a passer. Mid-season, Bentley emerged as Muschamp’s guy as a true freshman. One would expect all eyes to be on Bentley in how he conducts the South Carolina offense in this spring game.

With Joshua Dobbs, Chad Kelly and Trevor Knight all leaving for the NFL, the quarterback hierarchy in the SEC is totally up for grabs. Alabama has Jalen Hurts and a few other schools have their guy. However, 2017 is primed for Bentley to make his stand as one of the better signal callers in the SEC.

He has dual-threat capabilities, but will need to refine his mechanics as a passer. The Garnet and Black Game will illustrate how Bentley has taken to the teachings of his co-offensive coordinators Kurt Roper and Bryan McClendon. If Bentley emerges as a top-three passer in the SEC, South Carolina could contend to win the SEC East this fall.

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