Black Friday Battle of the Sleepers (Summerville v Sumter)

[Letsgetcocky]

After reeling from 3 quick scores vs Hillcrest, Sumter's Defense managed to get their feet under them and played their type of game. Ramaro Rock did his best Dikembe Mutumbo impression, swatting several screen passes and the key punt block. With Nate O'Connor drawing a lot of double teams; DeMarcus Harris stepped up, played one of his best games of the year, and cemented the brick wall.

The offense did a really good job adjusting to Hillcrest's game-plan last night. James Barnes started pulling the ball down and showing off the wheels. I really think the Rams underestimated his ability to run (side note: I would like to personally thank Blythewood and South Florence for James's on-field rush evasion training camp) Last night showed how far Sumter's offense has come. It's their ability to be multi-faceted that has gotten them this far.

I have to admit that I haven't looked too hard at the G-Wave yet. After watching a few offensive highlights it looks like their QB is good at extending the play with his legs but isn't hyper-fast. But, from what I'm hearing the Defense is what has made the team. I'll probable be better able to speak to that later on this week.

In my opinion, Sumter's Defense will continue to be the difference maker as the Gamecocks complete their improbable march to Williams-Brice. It's entirely possible that underestimating Summerville and I'm completely biased. But, I'm picking Sumter 24-17.

GO GAMECOCKS!!!

Who's your pick and why?

[SF Band dad]

I haven't seen Summerville play but I think I might this Friday.

Go Gamecocks!!

[GoBigGreen]

So how many people had a Summerville Sumter semi on this side of the bracket??? My guess is not many if any at all. Well we are both here and I bet neither team knows much about the other. I for one have not heard anything about the Gamecocks. I will check out some film in the next few days but hear Sumter's D is the key to their recent success. I believe Sumter had a very slow start to the season but have really turned it on lately. It has been quite a while since we played Sumter as well. Really looking forward to playing the Friday AFTER Thanksgiving....

[Letsgetcocky]

So how many people had a Summerville Sumter semi on this side of the bracket??? My guess is not many if any at all. Well we are both here and I bet neither team knows much about the other. I for one have not heard anything about the Gamecocks. I will check out some film in the next few days but hear Sumter's D is the key to their recent success. I believe Sumter had a very slow start to the season but have really turned it on lately. It has been quite a while since we played Sumter as well. Really looking forward to playing the Friday AFTER Thanksgiving....

I'm certain there was a bit of Upstate bias that lent to these teams being underestimated. Regardless of outcome, both these teams have a lot to be proud of.

Sumter's early season woes were a combination of: adjusting to a new head coach, a young offense, the entire O-Line being first-time starters, and a very tough schedule. Besides losing to 3A Crestwood (who I think Sumter plum underestimated) their losses were to very good 4A teams: vs. North Augusta, vs. Stratford, @ Blythewood, @ South Florence. That's a steep learning curve. By the time The Gamecocks traveled to Florence, the transformation was nearly complete... and they gave the Bruins quite a scare.

I am looking forward to traveling to Summerville and watching a good smash mouth low-country/midlands football game.

GO GAMECOCKS!!!

[bruindad79]

By the time The Gamecocks traveled to Florence, the transformation was nearly complete... and they gave the Bruins quite a scare.

This is why I picked Sumter to upset Hillcrest, you ask any of coaches who gave us a scare and ill guarantee you they'll say Sumter. There D Line is the real deal, Summerville had better be ready, or else they'll be sittin at house next Friday night.

Good Luck Gamecocks!!!

[bbrown1240]

I had Sumter and Summerville in the final four. Sumter has continued to get better as the season progressed. Its going to be a great game. Its also great that 3 lower state teams are in the final four. We play pretty good football down here too.

[Letsgetcocky]

...Its also great that 3 lower state teams are in the final four. We play pretty good football down here too.

I agree! No 'Dog & Pony Shows' around here. Just good fundamental football teams.

[BEAUFORTEAGLESFAN]

I think that this will be a pretty good game. It should be close. Summerville has a good defense. Sumter is playing better. Good luck to both teams.

GO BEAUFORT EAGLES!!!!