In Year Three of the Jake Bentley experiment at South Carolina, Gamecock fans were praying that they could make some waves in the SEC with their rocket-armed quarterback. Unfortunately, Bentley has gone from borderline NFL prospect to borderline college starter.
Bentley has just seven touchdowns and six interceptions. His completion percentage and yards per attempt are almost exactly what they were last season, showing that he hasn't improved and very well could have regressed. After stumbling to a 2-2 record including a loss against Kentucky, South Carolina fans have turned to Instagram to vent their frustrations at Bentley.
Some Gamecock fans have held the opinion that Bentley starting is simply nepotism, as his father, Bobby Bentley, is currently South Carolina's running backs coach.
Gamecock fans will need to wait at least another week before they see Bentley again, as backup Michael Scarnecchia will start while Bentley nurses an injury.
With the dynamic Rico Dowdie in the backfield and a first round talent in Deebo Samuel at wide receiver, the Gamecocks certainly should be better than 2-2. Bentley's arm talent far exceeds that of Scarnecchia, and he remains the more talented option under center. If he can figure it out, USC could easily win around 7-8 games.
If Bentley can't regain his old form, the Gamecocks could be sitting at home come bowl season, and the online hate will only get worse.
