No. 4 Mississippi falls, 16-10

Mississippi wasn’t ready for the top five -- or South Carolina’s defense.

Star passer Jevan Snead was hounded all game and the fourth-ranked Rebels never got in gear, losing to South Carolina, 16-10, Thursday night at Columbia, S.C.

South Carolina (3-1, 1-1 Southeastern Conference) had been 1-31 all-time against top-five foes but left Williams-Brice Stadium with the biggest win of Coach Steve Spurrier’s five seasons.

Spencer Lanning kicked three field goals and fullback Patrick DiMarco had a key two-yard touchdown catch for the Gamecocks.

Mississippi (2-1, 0-1) had one last chance at a go-ahead touchdown that would have extended its eight-game winning streak. But Snead was sacked by Cliff Matthews, then had a fourth-down pass knocked away by Darian Stewart.

The Rebels began the day with their highest ranking in nearly four decades. But they lost their SEC opener for the sixth straight season -- and probably will drop down the polls once the new rankings come out.

Clausen to play

Notre Dame quarterback Jimmy Clausen, slowed by a turf toe on his right foot after being sacked last weekend, is expected to play Saturday against Purdue.

Clausen was injured against Michigan State but missed only two plays.