In this two-part feature, we take an inside look at the Gamecocks' two deep prior to the team's season opener against Coastal Carolina on Saturday.

We break down each starter and backup on offense by looking back at the path that led him to South Carolina, and discuss why each player is in the two deep at this point.

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QUARTERBACK

STARTER: Jake Bentley

How he arrived at USC: Originally in the 2017 class, Bentley opted to skip his senior high school season entirely after pledging to the Gamecocks. He had many quality offers, and of course his father Bobby Bentley was in place on the staff in Columbia. Still, not many realize how close this was between South Carolina and Stanford during the recruiting process. Bentley loved the opportunity to stay in state and be close to his family.

Why he's at the top:Bentley took over midway through his true freshman season in 2016 and played well down the stretch, helping get the Gamecocks into a bowl game. As the full-time starter as a sophomore, he helped lead the team to a 9-4 overall record. The belief internally is he's set to take a step forward this season, but he's already done some good things in Columbia. He's the clear cut number one.

BACKUP: Michael Scarnecchia

How he arrived at USC: Scarnecchia arrived in Columbia from the 2014 class. It looked at one time like USC would go then-target Drew Barker or bust in that class, and Barker indeed pledged to Kentucky. Steve Spurrier opted to give Scarnecchia a look and decided to pull the trigger on an offer and that was that. The Sunshine State product was formerly committed to UAB.

Why he's number two: The fifth-year senior has barely played during his time in Columbia; he redshirted in his initial campaign and missed another year with a torn labrum. In preseason, he's impressed the staff with his throwing and ability to operate the offense. Even with a lack of on-field experience, he's been around the while and represents the best backup option, should USC need one.

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