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What does Maty Mauk's suspension mean for South Carolina
The suspension of Mizzou quarterback Maty Mauk will make things interesting on a number of levels for the South Carolina defense.
The Tigers will now be forced to start a freshman quarterback in Drew Lock. Conventional wisdom suggests South Carolina will blitz the inexperienced signal-caller early and often. Defensive coordinator Jon Hoke also could stack the box against talented running back Russell Hansbrough. If this scenario unfolds, the Gamecocks will be daring Lock to beat them over the top with passes downfield.
The absence of Mauk also takes away the threat of a running quarterback. He's the second-leading rusher on Missouri's team, and can be exceptionally dangerous when escaping the pocket. To compare, Lock hasn't registered a rushing yard (or attempt) through four games.
While the loss of Mauk could throw Missouri for a loop, it may also simplify South Carolina's expected defensive scheme when preparing for Saturday's game.
