Coach Richt has the scout teams cranked up now, trying to get the guys a good look at the Louisiana-Lafayette schemes. I'd bet behind closed doors, they are already scheming for the Gamecocks. But they are sworn to secrecy on that one. This is a smart start to the schedule. Damon Evans and Coach Richt did a nice job with this. Open with a exibition type game, before the big SEC opener. 
    September is critical to the season obviously. South Carolina and Arkansas are back to back. And that trip to Starkpatch can be trouble (just ask the Gators). I realize that some fans have already put "W's" next to those games, but it's just not that easy. Seriously. Go ahead and count on the showdown in Columbia being a physical, competitive battle. And then, one week later here comes Ryan Mallett throwing it all over the field at Sanford Stadium, with Petrino calling the plays. The issue at MIssissippi State is this: it is a mental game. Going in, the player knows State is typically bad. So, there is a mental letdown. And they play physical football. 
    Just don't believe the 'Dogs can open the season 4-0, unless they are forcing some turnovers and running the ball effectively. Basically, this team needs to hit the ground running.