Report card: Grading JSU's performance against Davidson
Sep. 3—How do your thoughts about JSU's 35-17 victory over Davidson compare to ours?
Offense: B
The Gamecocks put up a strong first half, which featured two of quarterback Zion Webb's three rushing touchdowns and both of his touchdown passes. A turnover contributed JSU's third-quarter stall, however, as Davidson closed to within 28-17.
Defense: B
JSU bent a lot against Davidson's option attack but didn't break nearly enough for the Wildcats to seriously threaten the Gamecocks. Lots of yards. Lots of possession time. Not enough points.
Special teams: A-
Michael Pettway's 71-yard kickoff return set up a JSU score, and J-Rock Swain's recovery of a dropped punt snap set up another. JSU came close to blocking Davidson's punts. Brenton King's missed field goal from 39 yards was the only glitch.
Coaching: B
JSU coach Rich Rodriguez said he and his staff got "outcoached" in some areas. JSU made adjustments, however. The same play that saw Mark McCurdy go uncovered for a 25-yard touchdown reception in the first quarter got covered when Davidson went to the well again on fourth down, in the fourth quarter.
Overall: B
Davidson clearly saw things on film from JSU's opener against Stephen F. Austin, most notably the chance to knock down Webb's passes at the line of scrimmage. Three of his passes got tipped, one resulting in an interception. Still, JSU found a way to win big when the numbers say they didn't exactly play their game.
—Joe Medley
Sports Writer Joe Medley: 256-235-3576. On Twitter: @jmedley_star.
