JD PicKell: Running backs will be key to Spencer Rattler's success

Spencer Rattler was a splashy add from the Transfer Portal for South Carolina this offseason. The former Oklahoma quarterback is set to start for the Gamecocks. Folks and fans around the program are ready to see the former blue-chip recruit sling the rock.

However, On3’s JD PicKell says pump the brakes on letting Rattler cook. He’s not in Oklahoma anymore. In SEC country, for the Gamecocks to put him in the best position to succeed, they’;; need a strong running attack.

Over on the On3 YouTube channel, PicKell explained exactly why Rattler needs a strong run game to compliment his dynamite arm. You can watch his comments below around the 4:00-mark or read them in full below.

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JD PicKell: South Carolina needs to feed its RBs

“I also think for South Carolina you need to feed your backs. That’s only going to help Spencer Rattler. And this is probably something you could say for any quarterback across the country: feed the running backs. It helps the quarterback but South Carolina ran the ball right around 55% of the time last year. I think you probably need to be right around that number again this year, even with an improvement at quarterback.

“Because you got Marshawn Lloyd who needs to see the football. A guy they’re really excited about in Columbia. And also Christian Beal-Smith, a guy who, for his career, is right around 4.5 yards per carry. Both those dudes, if they’re not seeing a healthy amount of the football, you’re probably doing a disservice to your offense.

“Even more so the defense is then able to key on the pass if you’re not committing to the run. And if you do commit to the run and you’re successful, well then that opens up things down field. Then you can get out of the quick game, do some play action and hit your speedsters downfield. Then you can start to have those explosive plays. But when the defense is able just to sit back on their heels and not even worry about you running the football, forget about it. Then it makes it hard on your quarterback.

“‘Because I got eight people back in coverage every single play, coach, it’s hard to complete passes. We got eight guys in coverage.’ That’s when you start to force the ball. That’s when you start to make too much happen. Ultimately, what I think you need is to give him help with this run game. You got some backs. Feed them.”