Spencer Rattler addresses role of MarShawn Lloyd within the Gamecocks offense

Despite a slow start in the running game, South Carolina picked up a Week 1 win ahead of their first SEC showdown against Arkansas. Regardless of the outcome over the weekend, Gamecocks quarterback Spencer Rattler wanted to make it clear during a press conference how important running back MarShawn Lloyd is to the offense as the season progresses and how versatile he can be.

“He’s a guy that, he wants it,” said Rattler. “He was injured a lot in his college career so far and everybody knows the type of talent he has. Everybody was happy to see him do what he did Saturday night. And that kind of popped up, he’s definitely one of our playmakers and we’ve got many others. But he was the guy on Saturday so, he was rolling, we got him the ball and he played a great game.

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Despite finishing the game with just 11 carries for 30 of the team’s 79 rushing yards and a touchdown, Lloyd got involved in the passing game with two catches for 31 yards and South Carolina’s only other offensive touchdown of the game.

Spencer Rattler, MarShawn Lloyd discuss offensive line

South Carolina got their first win of the season on Saturday, defeating Georgia State by three touchdowns at Williams-Brice Stadium. Even so, there have been questions for head coach Shane Beamer after the game — specifically regarding his offensive line. A unit that struggled last year for the Gamecocks, the issues carried over to the season opener.

So much so that two South Carolina players have had to make their voices heard on Twitter. Quarterback Spencer Rattler was one, quote tweeting running back MarShawn Lloyd. Both had to come to the defense of their offensive lines, telling fans to “chill.”

“Chill on my offensive line,” Lloyd said. “I usually don’t do this, but I’m tired of hearing this about them. Them boys work hard. Don’t be a fan later. We will be straight, I promise you that.”

“Amen! Love them guys. We’ll be just fine,” Rattler said himself.

South Carolina struggled running the ball, with Jaheim Bell being the leading rusher with 36 yards. Lloyd only had 30 but did get into the end zone for a touchdown. Rattler threw two interceptions while being sacked three times. Now, with the early season struggles, Rattler and Lloyd have had to defend their line.