South Carolina edge rusher Dylan Stewart has quickly established himself as one of the top defensive talents in the nation, despite being just a sophomore.
Last season, Stewart burst onto the college football scene with a dominant debut, recording 1.5 sacks and two forced fumbles in his first career game and finishing the year with 6.5 sacks total. His explosive speed off the edge remains one of the biggest challenges Alabama will have to manage in their upcoming matchup.
Though his production doesn’t always show up on the stat sheet, Stewart’s presence on the field is undeniable. In last season’s meeting with Alabama, he didn’t record any official stats, but his constant pressure forced the Crimson Tide to double-team him throughout the game. That attention freed up opportunities for his teammates — notably Kyle Kennard, who tallied two sacks in that contest.
Because of Stewart’s disruptive play, Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe had little time to operate in the pocket. He threw two interceptions and was forced to scramble 18 times for just 36 rushing yards, struggling to find rhythm under South Carolina’s relentless pressure.
Gamecocks head coach Shane Beamer praised Stewart’s development after the team’s opening win over Virginia Tech this season.
“He affected the quarterback even when he wasn’t in the backfield,” Beamer said. “And that’s what I was most proud of — just his demeanor during the game.”
That maturity has translated into improved production this year. Through six games, Stewart has already surpassed last year’s tackle total with 27, while also notching 3.5 sacks and two forced fumbles.
Even Alabama players have taken notice. Parker Brailsford, the Crimson Tide’s center, acknowledged Stewart’s reputation but maintained confidence in his team’s preparation.
“They had great rushers last week as well,” Brailsford said. “Every week great D-lines come in and play, but obviously Dylan Stewart is a great player as well. Every week is kind of the same.”
Saturday’s matchup could feature an intriguing one-on-one battle between Stewart and Alabama tackle Wilkin Formby, who has allowed multiple quarterback pressures and sacks this season. While quarterback Ty Simpson has shown good mobility in evading sacks, Formby will face one of his toughest tests yet against Stewart and the Gamecocks’ front line.
Alabama’s strategy of rotating offensive linemen could play a crucial role in slowing Stewart’s impact. The Crimson Tide have even shifted Formby inside to guard in recent games, giving the defense different looks to adjust to.
If Alabama can keep its blocking rotations consistent and limit Stewart’s opportunities, it may contain South Carolina’s pass rush. However, the Crimson Tide must be careful not to overcompensate, as the Gamecocks boast a well-rounded defensive line that has already compiled 15 sacks and four forced fumbles this season.
With Stewart leading the charge, South Carolina’s defense poses a serious threat to Alabama’s passing game — and could once again prove to be the difference-maker on Saturday.
