In a season specified by protective supremacy, no gamer has actually made a larger effect than South Carolina’s Kyle Kennard. The Georgia Tech transfer has actually become the very best protective end in college football, anchoring what lots of are calling the leading protective line in the nation. His elite play has actually been a crucial consider assisting the Gamecocks begin their 2024 season at 3-1– their finest start given that 2017.
Kennard’s Dominance in Numbers
Kennard’s production this season promotes itself. He’s connected for very first in the country with 5.5 sacks and leads the SEC in both sacks and takes on for loss (TFL), ranking 2nd nationally with 8.5 TFL. His disruptive existence in the backfield has actually made life unpleasant for quarterbacks and offending lines alike. In addition to his sack overalls, Kennard has actually tallied 10 takes on, 2 required fumbles, and a pass deflection, developing himself as one of the most total EDGE protectors in the nation.
In spite of his outstanding efficiency, Kennard has yet to get the NFL draft attention his play plainly warrants. That’s most likely to alter as the season advances and his supremacy ends up being difficult to neglect. With his size, athleticism, and motor, Kennard fits the profile of a top-tier NFL EDGE possibility, and it’s just a matter of time before scouts and draft experts begin taking notification.
Leading the Nation’s Best D-Line
While Kennard is unquestionably the standout, South Carolina’s whole protective line has actually been a powerhouse, sealing their track record as the very best system in college football. Freshman experience Dylan Stewart has actually made waves in his very first year, often drawing triple groups and requiring offenses like LSU to turn to holding charges simply to keep him in check. Even with the additional attention, Stewart has actually acquired 8 takes on, 2.5 sacks, and 2 required fumbles, making the greatest PFF grade for a real freshman EDGE because 2020. NFL scouts have actually currently pointed out that Stewart would be a top-10 draft choice if he were qualified today.
Beyond Kennard and Stewart, the Gamecocks are packed with skill throughout the line. Veterans like Tonka Hemingway, TJ Sanders, Alex Huntley, and Gilber Edmond have actually all played important functions in the Gamecocks’ early success. Hemingway supplies management and consistency, while Sanders and Huntley have actually revealed their capability to subdue offending linemen and get to the quarterback. Include the contributions of Monkell Goodwine and DeAndre Jules, and South Carolina has a level of depth that couple of groups can match.
The Gamecocks’ Recipe for Success
With Kyle Kennard leading the charge, the Gamecocks’ protective line has actually ended up being the engine driving the group’s success. Their 3-1 record has actually put them back in the nationwide spotlight, and if this system continues to control, there’s no informing how far South Carolina can enter 2024. Kennard’s play, integrated with the increase of young stars like Stewart and the depth of veterans, has actually produced a protective front that couple of groups can compete with.
As the season advances,