Shula explains how South Carolina will handle the running back gap in the Citrus Bowl.

Rocket Sanders won’t be playing in the Citrus Bowl.
That’s the headline.
And for South Carolina fans, it’s a big problem.

When your star running back opts out to prepare for the NFL Draft, the offence has to adapt.
But here’s the question: how does South Carolina move forward?

Let’s break it all down.

Why Rocket Sanders’ Absence Changes Everything

Sanders wasn’t just another player.
He was the heart of South Carolina’s running game.

His stats?
They tell the story: consistent yardage, big plays, and leadership on the field.

Without him, the Gamecocks need a whole new plan.

Mike Shula’s Game Plan: Running Back by Committee

The offensive coordinator, Mike Shula, is already talking strategy.
And it’s not about relying on just one replacement.

Instead, he’s leaning on a committee approach:

• Rotate multiple running backs.
• Keep the defence guessing.
• Find the “hot hand” during the game.

This strategy keeps everyone fresh and spreads the workload.

Who Are South Carolina’s Running Back Options?

Let’s talk names:

• Oscar Adaway III: He’s got size and experience.
• Juju McDowell: A quick and agile option for breaking through defences.
• Jawarn Howell: Strong, with a lot to prove in a high-stakes game.
• Matthew Fuller: A wildcard, but sometimes surprises work best.

Each player brings something different.
And that’s what makes this rotation idea interesting.

How Does This Affect the Offensive Scheme?

Without Sanders, the balance shifts.
The run game might not dominate as much, so there’s more pressure on the passing game.

Quarterback LaNorris Sellers?
He’ll need to step up.

Expect more creative play-calling from Shula:

• Short passes to running backs.
• Play-action plays to open up the field.
• Focusing on controlling the clock.

The Illinois Defence: What South Carolina’s Up Against

Illinois isn’t going to make this easy.
They’re known for a strong run defence.

Their strategy will likely focus on clogging the lanes and forcing South Carolina to pass.

But this could work to the Gamecocks’ advantage if they mix things up enough.

Past Lessons: How South Carolina Has Handled Similar Situations

This isn’t the first time South Carolina has faced a big game without a star player.

In past bowl games, the team’s ability to adapt has been a mixed bag.

But here’s the thing:
Bowl games are unpredictable.
And that unpredictability?
It levels the playing field.

Potential Breakout Players to Watch

This is where it gets exciting.
One of these running backs could become the star of the game.

My bet?
Juju McDowell’s speed could make a real impact.
But don’t sleep on Oscar Adaway’s ability to grind out tough yards.

Fan Expectations Are Sky-High

The buzz online is clear: fans want to see how the Gamecocks respond.
Some are worried.
Some are hopeful.

This is where teams show what they’re made of.

Conclusion: Adapting to Win

South Carolina’s running back situation is far from ideal.

But that’s football.

The Citrus Bowl will test the Gamecocks’ depth, creativity, and resilience.

And who knows?
This could be the game where an unexpected hero emerges.

FAQs

Why isn’t Rocket Sanders playing in the Citrus Bowl?
He opted out to prepare for the NFL Draft.

Who are South Carolina’s key running backs for the Citrus Bowl?
Oscar Adaway III, Juju McDowell, Jawarn Howell, and Matthew Fuller.

How will South Carolina adjust their offence without Sanders?
They’ll likely use a running back rotation and rely more on creative play-calling.

What’s Illinois’ defensive strength?
Their run defence is strong, which will challenge South Carolina’s game plan.

Who could have a breakout performance?
Juju McDowell and Oscar Adaway III are strong candidates.

South Carolina’s running back situation isn’t perfect, but the team’s adaptability could turn this challenge into an opportunity.
This is the Citrus Bowl.
Anything can happen.