COLUMBIA, SC (WIS) -
With 27 days left until the 2012 college football season begins, the Gamecocks will be taking their first steps of the season with the start of preseason practice on Friday.
With the wind of an 11-win 2011 season at their backs, the Gamecocks will have to hit the ground running -- mostly thanks to returning junior running back Marcus Lattimore -- since their first game begins a grueling SEC schedule.
The Aug. 30 match-up with the Vanderbilt Commodores on ESPN not only kicks off the Gamecocks' season, but also begins the overall college football season.
The Gamecocks will be facing an up-and-coming Vandy squad run by second-year coach James Franklin.
Franklin has the Commodores competing at a much higher level than what most SEC fans expect. In 2011, Franklin's team came within just five points of beating the Georgia Bulldogs. Several weeks later, Vandy almost defeated Tennessee for the first time in several seasons.
Even USC got Vandy's best shot. The Gamecocks had a tough time getting the offense opened up due to four Stephen Garcia interceptions and Lattimore being held to less than 100 yards rushing. Despite what coach Steve Spurrier called a "putrid offensive performance", the Gamecocks secured a 21-3 victory.
First game aside, one of the biggest questions of the offseason for the Gamecocks will likely be answered during preseason practices: Will Marcus Lattimore be up to his true form following knee surgery?
Lattimore tore a knee ligament in the Mississippi State game last season and was out for the rest of the year. Despite that, the team rallied.
South Carolina fans also have an impressive defense to keep in mind as DE Jadeveon Clowney will be entering his second season in the SEC.
With a host of returning talent, Gamecocks fans have plenty to look forward to as the season begins.
Copyright 2012 WIS. All rights reserved.
