South Carolina vs. Florida 2012 preview: Gators set for big SEC matchup

One of the biggest SEC showdowns of the season takes place Saturday when the No. 9 South Carolina Gamecocks travel to play the No. 3 Florida Gators.

The Gators (6-0, 5-0) stand first in the East Division. Florida is coming off a 31-17 victory at Vanderbilt last weekend.

The Gamecocks (6-1, 4-1) stand second in the East Division after their first loss of the season. South Carolina fell to No. 9 LSU on Saturday, 23-21.

Florida will look to take to the ground to beat South Carolina. The Gators, who average 233 rushing yards per game, have been led this season by running back Mike Gillislee. The senior has rushed for 615 yards and seven touchdowns on 120 carries. Quarterback Jeff Driskel has also been a threat on the ground, rushing for 326 yards and four touchdowns on 57 carries.

The Gamecocks fell from the No. 3 spot in the AP Top 25 with their loss to LSU over the weekend. South Carolina struggled offensively, with star running back Marcus Lattimore rushing for just 35 yards on 13 carries. Quarterback Connor Shaw completed 19 of 34 passes for 177 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions.

Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m. Saturday in Florida.