The University of South Carolina tasted success in 2010, claiming its first Southeastern Conference Eastern Division title. It only left coach Steve Spurrier and his team thirsting for more, however, as back-to-back losses to Auburn in the league title game and Florida State in the Chick-fil-A Bowl sent the team home unfulfilled.

The good news for the Gamecocks is seven starters return on offense and eight on defense. Included is consensus National Freshman of the Year Marcus Lattimore at tailback, All-American wide receiver Alshon Jeffery and quarterback Stephen Garcia.

Three starters return in the offensive line, led by center T. J. Johnson and right guard Roekevious Watkins.

Defensively, Travian Robertson, All-SEC performer Devon Taylor and Melvin Ingram return up front. Rodney Paulk is back at linebacker, while Shaq Wilson, the team's leading tackler in 2009, is back after missing the 2010 season with an injured hamstring.

Although the secondary struggled in defending against the pass, a talented crew led by cornerback Stephon Gilmore, Spur Antonio Allen and safeties DeVonte Holloman and Akeem Auguste.

With the realization the team could make much bigger waves in 2011, the team began winter workouts on Jan. 17 with vigor. There have been many standouts during the session. Most impressive, however, has been Lattimore who has not rested on his laurels. Instead he has opted to set an example, which proves why Spurrier has targeted recruits from winning high school programs in recent years.

Barring any key defections or injuries, the Gamecocks should enter the campaign again as the favorite to win the East.

TOP OF THE CLASS

OT Brandon Shell (Goose Creek High, Goose Creek, S.C.) The 6-foot-6, 318-pound Shell is one of the most imposing linemen to join the USC football program in years. After standout performances in the US Army All-American Game and the Shrine Bowl, he has positioned himself for potential playing time as a true freshman. Gamecock coach Steve Spurrier believes he could challenge to become the team's starter at left tackle.

DT Kelcy Quarles (Fork Union, Va., Military Academy, Hodges, S.C.) -- A Greenwood, S.C., Quarles enrolled for the spring semester after one year at Fork Union, which should allow him to enter the rotation as a defensive tackle. A Parade All-American out of high school, the son of former Gamecock offensive lineman Buddy Quarles appears to have the strength, speed and temperament to make an immediate impact.

DB Sheldon Royster (St. Peter's Prep, Woodbridge, N.J.) -- Royster has the ability to make an immediate impact at safety. The secondary can use the depth as it struggled against the pass last season.

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