Webb’s 5 Touchdown Day propels Gamecocks to 2-0

For Gamecock faithful, Saturday could not have gone much better as the Jacksonville State Gamecocks defeated the Davidson Wildcats for the second time in less than two years with an impressive 35-17 victory in the 2022 home opener. In front of a crowd of nearly 18,500, the Gamecocks put on a show. First year Head Coach Rich Rodriguez’ tenure continues the momentum gained from game one. The Gamecocks, who moved to 2-0, have now defeated two 2021 playoff teams in the first two weeks of the year. Expectations have not only been met, but exceeded so far. The Rich Rod era is off to an impressive start.

Led by another impressive performance from All-Conference QB Zion Webb, the Gamecocks offense once again shined. Webb finished with 158 yards through the air and two touchdowns on just nine completions. Webb added another 55 yards and three additional touchdowns on the ground. Matt LaRoche racked up 72 yards while averaging 4.5 per carry. Ahmad Edwards was the leading receiver on the day with three catches for 57 yards. Texas Tech transfer Sterling Galban also hauled in two catches for 38 yards and a touchdown. Stunningly, the offense amassed 316 total yards in just 17 minutes of time of possession. The uptempo style of play has visibly worn down the Gamecocks first two opponents. Defensively, the Gamecocks also excelled while dealing with an extremely tough task. Davidson’s triple option attack is no easy feat to handle. Being on the field for nearly three full quarters is not a normal ask, but the toughness, hard edge, and grit that has been talked about ad nauseam showed in the toughest moments. The Gamecocks held the Wildcats to 3.5 yards per carry and just 57 yards through the air. All-Conference linebacker Stevonte Tullis had one of the best games of his career registering 14 tackles & two fumble recoveries. All-Conference linebacker Markail Benton had a double-digit day as well with 10 tackles. Lastly, Curley Young Jr. had the lone sack of the day as the Wildcats only attempted 10 passes all day.

In closing, there are still clear areas where this team can improve. Offensively, three turnovers in two games aren’t ideal by any means. The second half wasn’t nearly as sharp and efficient as the first. A late touchdown, the only points of the second half, helped the Gamecocks pull away. Lulls like that can cost you against tougher teams down the line. Nine penalties in two games aren’t terrible, but they’ve been costly. Third down defense has been a minor issue. 50% conversion rate might be a bit inflated due to Davidson’s style of play, but it’s still something to keep an eye on. 0/2 in the kicking game is also something to monitor going forward. That said, if you’re a fan of the Jacksonville State Gamecocks, you have to be ecstatic with where the program is at present day. The future is bright.

For More Great Football Content

Follow me on Twitter @KyronSamuels for more great content. We appreciate you taking time to read our articles. To interact more with our community and keep up to date on the latest in Football news, JOIN OUR FREE FACEBOOK GROUP by CLICKING HERE