Gamecocks to face Middies in home opener
UNITED STATES NAVAL ACADEMY MIDSHIPMEN
Record: 2-0
Last time out: The Midshipmen improved to 2-0 and dealt Western Kentucky its 16th consecutive home defeat with a 40-14 win in Bowling Green on Saturday.
To date: In its season opener, Navy knocked off FCS power Delaware 40-17 in Annapolis, Md.
Who and what to watch for: The Midshipmen run a textbook triple option offensive attack similar to the one that has given both USC and Clemson fits in recent years. All-American quarterback Ricky Dobbs is gone, but Kriss Proctor has been a solid replacement so far and has continued to make Navy a threat in the passing game. Proctor has three passing touchdowns to go along with his three rushing scores. Halfbacks Alexander Teich and John Howell are both dangerous. Howell had two touchdowns against WKU.
On defense, junior safety Tra'ves Bush is a man to watch for. Bush returned an interception 49 yards for a touchdown against the Hilltoppers. Linebacker Matt Brewer, a junior, keys the unit along with classmate Matt Warrick, who leads the team in tackles.
Last five meetings: Gamecocks lead 4-1
1988: Gamecocks 19, Navy 7 in Columbia
1985: Gamecocks 34, Navy 31 in Columbia
1984: Navy 38, Gamecocks 21 in Annapolis, Md.
1983: Gamecocks 31, Navy 7 in Columbia
1982: Gamecocks 17, Navy 14 in Columbia
All-time series standings: Gamecocks lead 4-3
In Columbia: Gamecocks lead 4-1
In Annapolis: Navy leads 2-0
On Neutral Field: No series meetings on neutral field
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