OBSERVATIONS

BOTH QBS UNTESTED

N.C. State fans worried about how redshirt freshman quarterback Russell Wilson will react to a huge crowd need to remember that South Carolina has a first-time starter, too. Who's to say that Concord native Tommy Beecher won't get rattled instead of Wilson?

CALLING THE SHOTS

Steve Spurrier Jr. is taking over play calling from his father. Don't be surprised if the "Old Ball Coach" makes some suggestions, though, if the Gamecocks fail to move the ball early.

PLAYER TO WATCH

Keep an eye on N.C. State strong-side linebacker Robbie Leonard. Talented Gamecocks tight ends Jared Cook and Weslye Saunders may try to take advantage of Leonard's lack of size at 6 feet and 210 pounds.

SIMPLE MISSION

New South Carolina defensive coordinator Ellis Johnson's mission is simple. With 10 returning starters, Johnson needs to find a way to stop the run and pressure the quarterback better than former coordinator Tyrone Nix did last season.

McKINLEY TALENTED

South Carolina's Kenny McKinley is one of the best wide receivers the Wolfpack will face all season. He caught 77 passes for 968 yards in 2007 and is elusive after the catch.

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