South Carolina Gamecocks Betting Preview

The South Carolina Gamecocks recently played Missouri, Georgia, and Tennessee. South Carolina has lost 16 of its last 18 games since January 4.

The South Carolina Gamecocks are averaging 69.9 points on 42.8 percent shooting and allowing 71.5 points on 45.5 percent shooting. Collin Murray-Boyles is averaging 16.7 points and 8.1 rebounds, while Jamarii Thomas is averaging 13.1 points and 3 assists. Nick Pringle is dishing 1.2 assists and Zachary Davis is grabbing 4.7 rebounds. The South Carolina Gamecocks are shooting 31.5 percent from beyond the arc and 71.4 percent from the free throw line. The South Carolina Gamecocks are allowing 34.9 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 30.8 rebounds per game.

Arkansas Razorbacks Betting Preview

The Arkansas Razorbacks recently played Texas, Vanderbilt, and Mississippi State. Arkansas has a chance to win three straight games for the first time since December 14-30.

The Arkansas Razorbacks are averaging 76.7 points on 46.7 percent shooting and allowing 70.9 points on 41.9 percent shooting. Adou Thiero is averaging 15.6 points and 6 rebounds, while Boogie Fland is averaging 15.1 points and 5.7 assists. DJ Wagner is the third double-digit scorer and Johnell Davis is grabbing 3.5 rebounds. The Arkansas Razorbacks are shooting 33.4 percent from beyond the arc and 73.2 percent from the free throw line. The Arkansas Razorbacks are allowing 31.8 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 32.1 rebounds per game.

Arkansas vs South Carolina Injury Report

Arkansas will be without Boogie Fland and Adou Thiero. Myles Stute remains out for South Carolina with a leg injury.

Arkansas vs South Carolina Prediction

I’m not excited to back Arkansas in the favorite role when it just lost to South Carolina by 19 points earlier this month and is 13-17-1 ATS on the season. However, Arkansas has been the better team this season and getting behind a South Carolina team that’s lost 16 of its last 18 games isn’t any more encouraging. Arkansas also finished the regular season strong with wins in four of its last five games, so maybe this team hasn’t thrown in the towel just yet. If Arkansas stays hot offensively, this should be a comfortable win. Give me the Razorbacks in the first round of the SEC Tournament.

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Matchup History

These two teams have yet to meet this season, but the most recent meeting ended up with a 66-59 win for Tennessee at South Carolina back on March 6^th, 2024, making it 8 wins in the last 10 head-to-head meetings for the Vols between these two teams.

South Carolina Recap

The South Carolina Gamecocks come into this game on the heels of a 73-64 loss at home at the hands of Georgia in their last game to sit at 12-18 on the year.

Gamecocks Looking To Spring Some Upsets Heading Into SEC Tournament

Collin Murray-Boyles leads the Gamecocks in scoring and rebounding with 15.7 PPG and 8.5 RPG while Jamarii Thomas has 13.3 PPG with a team-high 3.2 APG to lead South Carolina in the assist department as the only pair of double-digit scorers for South Carolina up to this point in the year. Nick Pringle has 9.3 PPG with 6.2 RPG while Zachary Davis has 8.8 PPG with 4.3 RPG and Jacobi Wright has 8.3 PPG with 2.2 APG as well this season. As a team, South Carolina is averaging 70.1 PPG on 43.2% shooting from the field, 32.4% from three and 70.2% from the foul line this season.

Why the South Carolina Gamecocks will win

• South Carolina has won eight of its last 10 games when playing with a rest advantage.

Tennessee Recap

The Tennessee Volunteers come into this game looking to bounce back from a 78-76 loss to Ole Miss last time out to sit at 24-6 on the year.

Volunteers Looking To Rebound After Having Four-Game Win Streak Snapped

Chaz Lanier leads the Vols in scoring with 17.7 PPG along with 3.9 RPG while Igor Milicic Jr. has 10.1 PPG with a team-high 7.3 RPG to lead the Vols on the glass. Zakai Zeigler has 13.5 PPG with 3.1 RPG and a team-high 7.4 APG to lead the Vols in the assist department up to this point in the year. Jordan Gainey has 11 PPG to round out the group of double-digit scorers for Tennessee up to this point in the year. Felix Okpara also has 7.8 PPG with 6.5 RPG as well on the year. As a team, Tennessee is averaging 74.5 PPG on 45.1% shooting from the field, 34.7% from three and 74.8% from the foul line this season.

Why the Tennessee Volunteers will win

• Tennessee has won each of its last 12 games at Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• South Carolina has lost each of its last 10 games against AP-ranked opponents.

Total Points Facts

• Eight of South Carolina’s last nine games against Conference opponents have produced a total of 137+ points.
• Each of the last four games between South Carolina and Tennessee have produced a total of 130 or fewer points.

South Carolina vs. Tennessee Prediction

I’m on Tennessee here. I get the case to be made for South Carolina catching a decent number of points as Tennessee hasn’t been the best at covering big numbers at home this season. However, this is more of a fade of South Carolina on the road. The Gamecocks have been mighty competitive at home, as you can argue they probably should’ve beaten Florida and only lost to Auburn at home by 3 points. However, on the road is where the Gamecocks have been flattened and at home on Senior day, I think Tennessee steamrolls South Carolina here. Give me the Vols laying the big number.

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South Carolina Gamecocks Betting Preview

The South Carolina Gamecocks are 12-17 (2-14) this year after they defeated Arkansas by a score of 72-53 in their last game. South Carolina led 32-14 at halftime and added 40 points in the second half to cruise to the win. The Gamecocks shot 47.2% from the field, 35.7% on three-pointers, and 81% on free throws in the game. Collin Murray-Boyles led South Carolina with 35 points and seven rebounds, while Nick Pringle added 18 points and nine rebounds in the game. 

Prior to that win, the Gamecocks lost to Missouri by a score of 101-71 but did beat Texas by a score of 84-69 before that. South Carolina has lost 14 of their last 16 games and they are currently last in the SEC standings with a 2-14 record. South Carolina has scored 70.2 points per game and they have allowed 71.2 points per game, while also averaging 34.8 rebounds and 12.8 assists per game this season. Collin Murray-Boyles is averaging 16.8 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game, while Jamarii Thomas is averaging 13.1 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game this year. South Carolina is shooting 43.3% from the field, 71% on free throws, and 31.6% on three-pointers this season. 

Georgia Bulldogs Betting Preview

The Georgia Bulldogs are 18-11 (6-10) this season after they defeated Texas by a score of 83-67 in their last game. Georgia led 46-29 at halftime, but they were outscored 38-37 in the second half in the win. The Bulldogs shot 51.8% from the field, 36.4% on three-pointers, and 70.8% on free throws in the game. Silas Demary Jr. led Georgia with 26 points and four rebounds, while Blue Cain added 13 points and nine rebounds in the game. 

Prior to that win, the Bulldogs defeated Florida by a score of 88-83 but did lose to Auburn by a score of 82-70 before that. Georgia has lost four of their last six games and they are currently tied for 11th in the SEC standings with a 6-10 record. Georgia has scored 75.6 points per game and they have allowed 69.1 points per game, while also averaging 36.6 rebounds and 12.9 assists per game this year. Asa Newell is averaging 15.2 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 1.1 steals per game, while Silas Demary Jr. is averaging 12.9 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game this year. Georgia is shooting 46.4% from the field, 71.8% on free throws, and 33.2% on three-pointers this season. 

Why Georgia will beat South Carolina

• Georgia has won 14 of its last 15 games against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• South Carolina has lost nine of its last 10 night games against the Southeastern Conference.
• Georgia has won the first half in each of its last 12 night games against non-AP-ranked opponents.

Total Points Facts

• Each of South Carolina’s last six night games against the Southeastern Conference has produced a total of 140+ points.
• Seven of Georgia’s last eight games against Conference opponents have produced a total of 143+ points.

South Carolina vs Georgia Prediction 

South Carolina comes into this matchup after knocking off two NCAA bubble teams in their last two home games, and they will be at home once again. The Gamecocks have been awful in conference play this year, but they are doing a great job of playing the spoiler role right now. Georgia has won two games in a row, including a great win against Florida, but they need to keep winning if they want to make the tourney. Georgia is shooting over 46% from the field this year and they have scored 83 and 88 points in their last two games. I know South Carolina has a ton of momentum at home, but Georgia is the better team and I like them to get the win. 

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Matchup History

These two teams have not met yet this season, but last year, in the SEC tournament, South Carolina took down Arkansas by a final score of 80-66, on March 14^th, 2024. The win made It back-to-back wins for the Gamecocks in this head-to-head matchup.

Arkansas Recap

The Arkansas Razorbacks come into this game looking to add on to their 86-81 win over Texas last time out to sit at 17-11 on the year. After this game, Arkansas will head on the road for a matchup with the Vanderbilt Commodores.

Razorbacks Win Back-To-Back Games On Bubble

Adou Thiero leads the Razorbacks in scoring and rebounding with 15.6 PPG and 6 RPG. Boogie Fland has 15.1 PPG with a team-high 5.7 APG to lead the Razorbacks in assists in addition to 3.4 RPG as well, but is expected to miss the remainder of the season because of injury. D.J. Wagner has 10.7 PPG with 2.9 RPG and 3.5 APG and Johnell Davis has 10.7 PPG with 3.5 RPG to cap off the trio of active double-digit scorers for Arkansas up to this point in the year. Zvonimir Ivisic has 9.9 PPG with 4.5 RPG and Karter Knox has 7.7 PPG with 3.3 RPG as well. As a team, Arkansas is averaging 76.4 PPG on 46.8% shooting from the field, 33.8% from three and 72.8% from the foul line this season.

Why the Arkansas Razorbacks will win

• South Carolina has lost 15 of its last 16 games against the Southeastern Conference.
• Arkansas has won 16 of its last 20 games against non-AP-ranked opponents.

South Carolina Recap

The South Carolina Gamecocks come into this game looking to bounce back from a 101-71 loss at the hands of Missouri last time out to slip to 11-17 on the year. After this game, South Carolina will welcome the Georgia Bulldogs to town.

Gamecocks Looking To Bounce Back After Another Defeat

Collin Murray-Boyles leads the Gamecocks in scoring and rebounding with 15.7 PPG and 8.5 RPG while Jamarii Thomas has 13.3 PPG with a team-high 3.2 APG. They are the only pair of double-digit scorers for South Carolina up to this point in the year. Nick Pringle has 9.3 PPG with 6.2 RPG while Zachary Davis has 8.8 PPG with 4.3 RPG and Jacobi Wright has 8.3 PPG with 2.2 APG as well this season. As a team, South Carolina is averaging 70.1 PPG on 43.2% shooting from the field, 32.4% from three and 70.2% from the foul line this season.

Why the South Carolina Gamecocks will win

• South Carolina has won each of its last eight games at Colonial Life Arena against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• Arkansas has lost each of its last seven day games against the Southeastern Conference.

Total Points Facts

• Eight of South Carolina’s last nine day games against Conference opponents at Colonial Life Arena have produced a total of 136 or fewer points.
• Four of Arkansas’ last five games at Colonial Life Arena have produced a total of 142+ points.

Arkansas vs. South Carolina Prediction

I’m on South Carolina here. I’d love to catch South Carolina in the underdog role at home, but I think it’s very telling that this line is where it is. Arkansas is in prime spot for a letdown here after tournament-building wins over Texas and Missouri and now have to face a cellar dweller in South Carolina. I think the Hogs need to be on high alert here. At home, the Gamecocks have held their own against pretty tough opposition like Auburn, Florida and others and I think they get a win here and ding Arkansas’ NCAA tournament hopes. Give me the Gamecocks here.

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South Carolina Gamecocks Betting Preview

The South Carolina Gamecocks lost to LSU, beat Texas, and they play Arkansas, Georgia, and Tennessee next. South Carolina snapped a 13-game losing streak with a win over Texas, its first win since December 30.

The South Carolina Gamecocks are averaging 70.1 points on 43.2 percent shooting and allowing 70.9 points on 44.9 percent shooting. Collin Murray-Boyles is averaging 15.7 points and 8.5 rebounds, while Jamarii Thomas is averaging 13.3 points and 3.2 assists. Nick Pringle is dishing 1.1 assists and Zachary Davis is grabbing 4.3 rebounds. The South Carolina Gamecocks are shooting 32.4 percent from beyond the arc and 70.2 percent from the free throw line. The South Carolina Gamecocks are allowing 35.5 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 31.4 rebounds per game.

Missouri Tigers Betting Preview

The Missouri Tigers beat Alabama, lost to Arkansas, and they play Vanderbilt, Oklahoma, and Kentucky next. Missouri hasn’t lost a home game this season to an unranked team.

The Missouri Tigers are averaging 83.7 points on 48.3 percent shooting and allowing 70.9 points on 43.2 percent shooting. Mark Mitchell is averaging 13.7 points and 4.7 rebounds, while Caleb Grill is averaging 13.4 points and 1.1 assists. Tamar Bates is the third double-digit scorer and Anthony Robinson II is dishing 3.3 assists. The Missouri Tigers are shooting 36.9 percent from beyond the arc and 72 percent from the free throw line. The Missouri Tigers are allowing 34 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 31.9 rebounds per game.

Missouri vs South Carolina Injury Report

South Carolina will be without Myles Stute due to a leg injury. Missouri will be without Trent Burns, while Josh Gray is questionable with an undisclosed issue.

Missouri vs South Carolina Prediction

South Carolina has been awful all season, and one win over Texas doesn’t move the needle much. South Carolina is also 12-14-1 ATS on the season despite being underdogs nightly. Missouri is one of the most consistent teams in the SEC and is a profitable 16-11 ATS on the season. Missouri is 17-1 SU at home. The favorite has covered six of the last nine games between South Carolina and Missouri. The Missouri Tigers are also 5-1 ATS in their last six games as a favorite. Thick line, but give me Missouri in a comfortable home win.

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South Carolina Gamecocks Betting Preview

The South Carolina Gamecocks are 10-16 (0-13) this year after they lost to LSU by a score of 81-67 in their last game. South Carolina trailed 41-27 at halftime, but they did score 40 points in the second half in the loss. The Gamecocks shot 47.1% from the field, 36.8% on three pointers, and 80% on free throws in the game. Jamarii Thomas led South Carolina with 23 points and five rebounds, while Collin Murray-Boyles added 16 points and 10 rebounds in the loss. 

Prior to that game, the Gamecocks lost to Florida by a score of 88-67 and Ole Miss by a score of 72-68. South Carolina has lost 13 games in a row and they are currently last in the SEC standings with an 0-13 record. South Carolina has scored 69.6 points per game and they have allowed 70.9 points against per game, while also averaging 35 rebounds and 12.8 assists per game this season. Collin Murray-Boyles is averaging 15.5 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game, while Jamarii Thomas is averaging 13.3 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game this year. South Carolina is shooting 43.2% from the field, 69.8% on free throws, and 32.4% on three pointers this season. 

Texas Longhorns Betting Preview

The Texas Longhorns are 16-10 (5-8) this season after they defeated Kentucky by a score of 82-78 in their last game. Texas trailed 41-37 at halftime, but they scored 45 points in the second half for the comeback win. The Longhorns shot 45.3% from the field, 21.7% on three pointers, and 82.6% on free throws in the game. Tre Johnson led Texas with 32 points and nine rebounds, while Tramon Mark added 26 points and two assists in the win. 

Prior to that game, the Longhorns lost to Alabama by a score of 103-80 and Vanderbilt by a score of 86-78. Texas has lost three of their last four games and they are currently tied for 10th in the SEC standings with a 5-8 record. Texas has scored 78.7 points per game and they have allowed 69.3 points against per game, while also averaging 35.7 rebounds and 13.5 assists per game this season. Tre Johnson is averaging 19.8 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game, while Jordan Pope is averaging 11.3 points, 1.8 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game this year. Texas is shooting 47% from the field, 75.4% on free throws, and 36.1% on three pointers this season. 

Why Texas will beat South Carolina

• South Carolina has lost each of its last 14 games against the Southeastern Conference.
• Texas has won 11 of its last 12 games when playing with a rest advantage.
• Texas has won the first half in 14 of its last 15 games against non-AP-ranked opponents.

South Carolina vs Texas Prediction 

South Carolina comes into this contest looking for their first conference win of the season and they will be at home for this game. The Gamecocks have lost 13 games in a row and they are shooting just 43.2% from the field this year. South Carolina hasn’t been terrible on offense, but they have allowed 76+ points in four of their last five games. Texas is coming off of a huge win against Kentucky in their last game, but they have lost three of their last four road games. The Longhorns are shooting 47% from the field this year, but they have allowed at least 78 points in four straight games. I don’t like either defense in this matchup, but I trust Texas’ scoring ability much more than South Carolina’s. Take the Longhorns here. 

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South Carolina Gamecocks Betting Preview

The South Carolina Gamecocks lost to Florida and Ole Miss, and they play Texas, Missouri, and Arkansas next. The South Carolina Gamecocks are averaging 69.7 points on 43 percent shooting and allowing 70.5 points on 44.8 percent shooting. Collin Murray-Boyles is averaging 15.5 points and 8.4 rebounds, while Jamarii Thomas is averaging 12.8 points and 3.2 assists. Nick Pringle is dishing 1.2 assists and Zachary Davis is grabbing 4.4 rebounds. The South Carolina Gamecocks are shooting 32.2 percent from beyond the arc and 69.5 percent from the free throw line. The South Carolina Gamecocks are allowing 35.1 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 31.5 rebounds per game.

LSU Tigers Betting Preview

The LSU Tigers lost to Arkansas, beat Oklahoma, and they play Florida, Tennessee, and Mississippi State next. The LSU Tigers are averaging 76.4 points on 45.5 percent shooting and allowing 72.4 points on 41.1 percent shooting. Cam Carter is averaging 17.3 points and 4.1 rebounds, while Jordan Sears is averaging 12.8 points and 3 rebounds. Jalen Reed is the third double-digit scorer and Vyctorius Miller is grabbing 2.6 rebounds. The LSU Tigers are shooting 31.2 percent from beyond the arc and 72.8 percent from the free throw line. The LSU Tigers are allowing 31.5 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 34 rebounds per game.

LSU vs South Carolina Injury Report

LSU will continue to be without Jalen Reed and Tyrell Ward. South Carolina will be without Myles Stute due to a leg injury.

LSU vs South Carolina Prediction

The LSU Tigers aren’t a world-beater and have issues of their own, but we’re laying less than a full bucket to fade a South Carolina team that hasn’t won a game since December 30. LSU is coming off a huge upset road win over Oklahoma, which is the type of win that could lead to a strong finish these next couple of weeks. LSU has seen 10 of its 13 wins this season come at home. South Carolina has shown nothing during this insane losing stretch to give confidence to bettors. Give me LSU and the surprisingly small chalk.

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South Carolina Gamecocks Betting Preview

The South Carolina Gamecocks lost to Kentucky and Ole Miss, and they play LSU, Texas, and Missouri next. The South Carolina Gamecocks are averaging 69.8 points on 43 percent shooting and allowing 69.8 points on 44.3 percent shooting. Collin Murray-Boyles is averaging 15.6 points and 8.7 rebounds, while Jamarii Thomas is averaging 13 points and 3.2 assists. Nick Pringle is dishing 1.3 assists and Zachary Davis is grabbing 4.5 rebounds. The South Carolina Gamecocks are shooting 32.2 percent from beyond the arc and 69 percent from the free throw line. The South Carolina Gamecocks are allowing 34.2 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 31.8 rebounds per game.

Florida Gators Betting Preview

The Florida Gators beat Auburn and Mississippi State, and they play Oklahoma, LSU, and Georgia next. The Florida Gators are averaging 83.6 points on 46.6 percent shooting and allowing 66.5 points on 38.8 percent shooting. Walter Clayton Jr. is averaging 17.5 points and 3.6 rebounds, while Alijah Martin is averaging 15.3 points and 4.9 rebounds. Will Richard is the third double-digit scorer and Alex Condon is grabbing 7.8 rebounds. The Florida Gators are shooting 34.4 percent from beyond the arc and 71.4 percent from the free throw line. The Florida Gators are allowing 28.1 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 40.1 rebounds per game.

Florida vs South Carolina Injury Report

South Carolina will be without Myles Stute due to a leg injury. Florida will be without Sam Alexis, Alex Condon, and Micah Handolgten. Alijah Martin is questionable for the Gators.

Florida vs South Carolina Prediction

The South Carolina Gamecocks nearly upset Florida a few weeks ago, losing by one point as an 11.5-point underdog. That’s reason to consider the points. With that said, South Carolina still has issues scoring the ball and finishing games, and that’s not going to fly against a team like Florida. The Florida Gators are just too consistent at both ends of the floor, and that includes a 17-7 ATS record. Florida is also 8-2 ATS in its last 10 games as a double-digit favorite. I’m not trying to step in front of the Gators. I’ll lay the points with the home team.

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Can Ole Miss Win a Third Straight Game?

Ole Miss suddenly has all kinds of confidence, and they have won two straight games. Two games ago against Kentucky, Ole Miss scored 98 points on the way to the victory. In the last game against LSU, they went on the road and were able to secure a 72-70 victory. At halftime, they were down, but in the second half, they scored 39 points, and that was enough to pick up the victory. Guard Dre Davis had a strong game, putting up 22 points and seven rebounds. There were four different players that put up at least 10 points.

Ole Miss sits with an 18-6 record overall, and they have gone 14-10 against the spread. Ole Miss is averaging 78.3 points while their defense is giving up 68.5 points per game. The offense is ranked 86th in the league and they have gone 14-10 against the spread. Away from home, they have gone 4-3 straight up. Sean Pedulla is averaging 15 points while shooting 44.8 percent from the field.  After this game, Ole Miss will meet Mississippi State, Vanderbilt, Auburn, and Oklahoma. 

Why Ole Miss Will Beat South Carolina

• South Carolina has lost each of its last 11 games against Conference opponents.
• Ole Miss has won 16 of its last 17 games against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• Ole Miss has won the first half in seven of its last nine games against South Carolina.

Big Test for South Carolina

South Carolina has struggled heading into this game but this is a big test for them. South Carolina has lost 10 games in a row, and a lot of them haven’t been all that close. In the last game against Kentucky, South Carolina scored 57 points, but the defense gave up 80 points, leading to the blowout. South Carolina shot only 32.8 percent from the field and 18.2 percent from behind the three-point line. Collin Murray-Boyles was the top player for South Carolina putting up 14 points, eight rebounds, and one assist. 

Overall, the Gamecocks have a 10-13 record, and they have gone 10-12 against the spread. South Carolina is averaging 69.9 points, while their defense is giving up 69.7 points per game. The offense is ranked 289th in the league, while the defense is ranked 115th. The defense overall for this team hasn’t been awful, but the lack of playing any sort of defense has been a major problem.  

South Carolina vs Ole Miss Prediction

I am not even concerned that Ole Miss is playing on the road; they are going to have no issue getting the job done in this game. This South Carolina offense just isn’t that good, and overall, they are averaging only 69.9 points per game. Compare that to Ole Miss, who averages 78.3 points per game. South Carolina is going to have no answer with the defense, and Ole Miss is going to cruise here. Back Ole Miss against the spread. 

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South Carolina Gamecocks Betting Preview

The Gamecocks were looking pretty good over their first 13 games of the season (despite a choppy start). Since New Year’s Day however, South Carolina hasn’t been able to find another victory. The Gamecocks opened on a 3-3 stretch with losses to North Florida, Indiana and Xavier. A win streak came next as South Carolina took out Virginia Tech, Boston College, East Carolina, USC Upstate, Clemson, Radford and Presbyterian. Since then it’s been a long string of losses. Those have come courtesy of Mississippi State, Alabama, Auburn, Vanderbilt, Oklahoma, Florida, Mississippi State, Georgia and Texas A&M. The result in the record column so far has been a 10-12 overall record through the first 22 games of the season.

In the Texas A&M matchup over the weekend, the Gamecocks hit a 44-36 deficit in the first half. South Carolina got better from there on a 36-32 stretch but ended up taking the loss in the end 76-72. Leading the team in scoring was Collin Murray-Boyles with 22 points, seven boards, six assists and two steals. Jamarii Thomas added 15 points with five assists and five rebounds with a pair of steals, while Morris Ugusuk led the contributions off the bench with his 12 points, one assist and one steal in 18 minutes of action on the floor.

Kentucky Wildcats Betting Preview

Over on the Wildcats’ side, they came out of the gate on a pretty nice clip themselves. Kentucky has had their own issues since mid-January, however. The Wildcats’ first 14 outings were a 12-2 run with losses to only Clemson and Ohio State. Otherwise it was wins over Wright State, Bucknell, Duke, Lipscomb, Jackson State, Western Kentucky, Georgia State, Gonzaga, Colgate, Louisville, Brown and Florida. A 2-3 stretch came next with wins over Mississippi State and Texas A&M among losses to Georgia, Alabama and Vanderbilt. Following another win over Tennessee, Kentucky has since lost to Arkansas and Ole Miss in their last pair, giving the Wildcats a 15-7 record through 22 outings of the year.

Matched up against Ole Miss on Tuesday, the Wildcats exited the locker room with a 54-31 deficit. Kentucky got better in the second half on a 53-44 advantage but still took a sizable loss 98-84 in the end. Otega Oweh was the team’s leading scorer with 24 points and six rebounds. Jaxson Robinson added 18 points with two boards and two assists, and Amari Williams launched a triple-double on 12 points, 11 rebounds and 10 assists. Andrew Carr finished with 10 points, four rebounds and three assists as the team’s leading bench contributor.

Why the Kentucky Wildcats will win

• South Carolina has lost each of its last 10 games against the Southeastern Conference.
• Kentucky has won 32 of its last 34 day games against the Southeastern Conference at Rupp Arena at Central Bank Center.
• Kentucky has won the first half in 12 of its last 13 games at Rupp Arena at Central Bank Center against non-AP-ranked opponents.

Why the South Carolina Gamecocks will win

• South Carolina has won seven of its last eight games when playing with a rest advantage.
• Kentucky has lost four of its last five games.
• Kentucky has lost the first half in each of its last five games against the Southeastern Conference.

Total Points Facts

• Each of South Carolina’s last eight day games have produced a total of 144 or fewer points.
• Seven of Kentucky’s last eight day games at Rupp Arena at Central Bank Center have produced a total of 153+ points.

Kentucky vs South Carolina Prediction

I’ll lean toward Kentucky here. Both teams could use a good performance, but Kentucky seems to be in a better position. The Wildcats ended up showing well versus Ole Miss (50 percent) and had a 37-29 rebounding advantage with just eight turnovers. The major issue in the loss however, was 54.7 percent surrendered shooting on the other side. Kentucky has given up 73 or more points in five straight games now—a 1-4 run.

As for South Carolina, their major blemish in the Texas A&M loss was the 12 turnovers for 19 Aggies points. The Gamecocks have been giving up points at a pretty good clip too: 7 or more in three of the last four (an 0-4 run). I like this one to be a high-scoring finish and a pretty competitive game, but I like Kentucky a little better at home. You could probably make a case either way, though. South Carolina should be able to notch a nice total.

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Texas A&M Aggies Betting Preview

The Texas A&M Aggies beat Oklahoma, lost to Texas, and they play Missouri, Georgia, and Arkansas next. The Texas A&M Aggies are averaging 75.3 points on 42.4 percent shooting and allowing 66 points on 39.5 percent shooting. Zhuric Phelps is averaging 15.1 points and 5.1 rebounds, while Wade Taylor IV is averaging 14.5 points and 4.6 assists. Henry Coleman III is dishing 0.5 assists and Pharrel Payne is grabbing 4.9 rebounds. The Texas A&M Aggies are shooting 30.7 percent from beyond the arc and 68.5 percent from the free throw line. The Texas A&M Aggies are allowing 31.6 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 37.4 rebounds per game.

South Carolina Gamecocks Betting Preview

The South Carolina Gamecocks lost to Mississippi State and Georgia, and they play Kentucky, Ole Miss, and Florida next. The South Carolina Gamecocks are averaging 70.4 points on 43.4 percent shooting and allowing 68.9 points on 44 percent shooting. Collin Murray-Boyles is averaging 15.2 points and 8.9 rebounds, while Jamarii Thomas is averaging 3.1 points and 3.2 assists. Nick Pringle is dishing 1.4 assists and Zachary Davis is grabbing 4 rebounds. The South Carolina Gamecocks are shooting 32.6 percent from beyond the arc and 69.2 percent from the free throw line. The South Carolina Gamecocks are allowing 32.5 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 32.2 rebounds per game.

South Carolina vs Texas A&M Injury Report

South Carolina will continue to be without Myles Stute due to a leg injury. Solomon Washington (undisclosed) and Hayden Hefner (ankle) are questionable for Texas A&M.

South Carolina vs Texas A&M Prediction

The South Carolina Gamecocks are a tough team to get behind, as they haven’t won a game since December 30 and haven’t scored 70 or more points since December 22. I doubt the Gamecocks find offense against a Texas A&M defense that’s top-50 in points allowed and top-25 in field goal percentage defense. Texas A&M has also shown improvement offensively in recent games, scoring 80 in games against Oklahoma and Texas. South Carolina also has five losses at home this season, so the Colonial Life Arena hasn’t done its job. The line is reasonable. I’ll lay the points with Texas A&M on the road. 

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Georgia Bulldogs Betting Preview

The Georgia Bulldogs are 14-6 (2-5) this season after they lost to Florida by a score of 89-59 in their last game. Georgia trailed 51-26 at halftime and only managed 33 points in the second half in the loss. The Bulldogs shot 35.6% from the field, 23.8% on three-pointers, and 80% on free throws in the game. Blue Cain led Georgia with 10 points and two rebounds, while Asa Newell added eight points and six rebounds in the game. 

Prior to that loss, the Bulldogs lost to Arkansas by a score of 68-65 and Auburn by a score of 70-68. Georgia has lost four games in a row and they are currently near the bottom of the SEC standings. Georgia has scored 76.4 points per game and they have allowed 66.5 points per game, while also averaging 37.9 rebounds and 13.2 assists per game this season. Asa Newell is averaging 15.1 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 1.0 assists per game, while Silas Demary Jr. is averaging 11.3 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game this year. Georgia is shooting 46.8% from the field, 71.8% on free throws, and 32.5% on three-pointers this season. 

South Carolina Gamecocks Betting Preview

The South Carolina Gamecocks are 10-10 (0-7) this year after they lost to Mississippi State in overtime by a score of 65-60 in their last game. South Carolina trailed 28-20 at halftime, but they were able to force overtime, before scoring just five points in overtime for the loss. The Gamecocks shot 29.3% from the field, 20% on three-pointers, and 75.9% on free throws in the game. Jamarii Thomas led South Carolina with 19 points and five rebounds, while Arden Conyers added 12 points and six rebounds in the game. 

Prior to that loss, the Gamecocks lost to Florida by a score of 70-69 and Oklahoma by a score of 82-62. South Carolina has lost seven games in a row and they are the only SEC team that is winless in conference play. South Carolina has scored 70.9 points per game and they have allowed 68.8 points per game, while also averaging 36.3 rebounds and 13.3 assists per game this season. Collin Murray-Boyles is averaging 15.1 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game, while Jamarii Thomas is averaging 12.8 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game this year. South Carolina is shooting 43.5% from the field, 68.9% on free throws, and 32.9% on three-pointers this season. After this game, South Carolina will play against Texas A&M  and Kentucky.

Why South Carolina will beat Georgia

• South Carolina has won each of its last six night games against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• Georgia has lost each of its last four games.
• South Carolina has won the first half in 18 of its last 20 night games against non-AP-ranked opponents.

Total Points Facts

• Sixteen of Georgia’s last 17 games against non-AP-ranked opponents have produced a total of 133+ points.
• Each of South Carolina’s last six games at Stegeman Coliseum has produced a total of 134+ points.

Georgia vs South Carolina Prediction 

Both of these teams come into this matchup on losing streaks and both desperately need a win, but Georgia will be at home. The Bulldogs have lost four games in a row and they have scored 65 points or fewer in three of those four losses. Georgia does typically play well at home, but they need to play much better defense than they did against Florida. South Carolina is still looking for their first conference win of the season and they are shooting just 43.5% from the field this year. The Gamecocks have been in plenty of close games, but they seem to always find a way to lose. I think this game could go either way, especially with South Carolina keeping four of their last five games close, so give me the points with the Gamecocks. 

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Mississippi State Bulldogs Betting Preview

The Mississippi State Bulldogs be an Ole Miss, lost to Tennessee, and they play Alabama, Missouri, and Georgia next. The Mississippi State Bulldogs are averaging 81.5 points on 46 percent shooting and allowing 70 points on 42.7 percent shooting. Josh Hubbard is averaging 16.5 points and 2.9 assists, while Claudell Harris Jr. is averaging 10.7 points and 3.1 rebounds. Riley Kugel is the third double-digit scorer and KeShawn Murphy is dishing 1.9 assists. The Mississippi State Bulldogs are shooting 32.5 percent from beyond the arc and 69.7 percent from the free throw line. The Mississippi State Bulldogs are allowing 35 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 36.8 rebounds per game.

South Carolina Gamecocks Betting Preview

The South Carolina Gamecocks lost to Oklahoma and Florida, and they play Georgia, Texas A&M, and Kentucky next. The South Carolina Gamecocks are averaging 71.5 points on 44.3 percent shooting and allowing 69 points on 43.7 percent shooting. Collin Murray-Boyles is averaging 15.3 points and 8.9 rebounds, while Jamarii Thomas is averaging 12.3 points and 3.3 assists. Nick Pringle is dishing 1.5 assists and Zachary Davis is grabbing 4.1 rebounds. The South Carolina Gamecocks are shooting 33.6 percent from beyond the arc and 68.5 percent from the free throw line. The South Carolina Gamecocks are allowing 32.6 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 32.2 rebounds per game.

South Carolina vs Mississippi State Injury Report

South Carolina will be without Jamarii Thomas, while Myles Stute is questionable with a leg injury. Mississippi State will be without Kanye Clary due to a leg injury.

South Carolina vs Mississippi State Prediction

The South Carolina Gamecocks haven’t won a game since December 30 and haven’t scored 70 points since December 22. Not ideal when going up against an aggressive and above average Mississippi State defense. Mississippi State has three road wins on the season and is a tough-minded team that’s not scared of anybody. Mississippi State is also a top-50 scoring offense. This just doesn’t feel like a game where South Carolina is going to get out of its funk. The line may be a little thick for a road team, but I’m laying the points with Mississippi State anyway.

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Florida Recap

The Florida Gators come into this game looking to build on an 84-60 win over Texas last time out to improve to 16-2 on the year. After this game, Florida will head home for a game against the Georgia Bulldogs.

Gators Looking To Heat Up Again

Walter Clayton Jr. leads the Gators in scoring and assists with 17.9 PPG and 3.7 APG along with 3.4 RPG while Alijah Martin has 16.2 PPG with 5.5 RPG and 2.7 APG. Will Richard has 13 PPG with 5.1 RPG and 2 SPG and Alex Condon’s added 10.8 PPG with a team-high 8.2 RPG to lead Florida on the glass and to round out the group of double-digit scorers for Florida so far this season. Thomas Haugh also has 7.6 PPG with 5.3 RPG as well on the year. As a team, Florida is averaging 85.9 PPG on 46.9% shooting from the field, 34.3% from three, and 71.4% from the foul line this season.

Why the Florida Gators will win

• Florida has won 15 of its last 16 games against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• South Carolina has lost each of its last six games against the Southeastern Conference.

South Carolina Recap

The South Carolina Gamecocks come into this game looking to bounce back from an 82-62 loss to Oklahoma last time out to drop to 10-8 on the year. After this game, South Carolina will meet  Mississippi State, Georgia, and Texas A&M.

Gamecocks Lose 5^th In A Row

Collin Murray-Boyles leads the Gamecocks in scoring and rebounding with 15.4 PPG and 9.2 RPG while Jamarii Thomas has 12.3 PPG with a team-high 3.3 APG to lead South Carolina in the assist department this season. Nick Pringle has 10 PPG and 6.3 RPG to cap off the trio of double-digit scorers for South Carolina up to this point in the year while Zachary Davis has 8.9 PPG with 4.1 RPG and Jacobi Wright has 8.9 PPG with 2.6 APG as well this season. As a team, South Carolina is averaging 71.6 PPG on 44% shooting from the field, 33.5% from three, and 68.8% from the foul line this season.

Why the South Carolina Gamecocks will win

• South Carolina has won five of its last six night games at Colonial Life Arena.

Total Points Facts

• Fifteen of Florida’s last 16 night games against non-AP-ranked opponents have produced a total of 144+ points.
• Eleven of South Carolina’s last 13 night games against AP-ranked opponents at Colonial Life Arena have produced a total of 147+ points.

South Carolina vs Florida Prediction

I’m with Florida here. The Gators just continue to pass every one of my eye tests when I watch this team, while the Gamecocks find new and creative ways to lose left and right. Sometimes the games are close, and sometimes, like against Oklahoma, not so much. We’ve seen the Gators demolish inferior opposition, far more often than not this season and I’m not really in the business of stepping in front of the Gators, especially when the Gamecocks are the alternative. Give me Florida laying the wood here.

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South Carolina Recap

The South Carolina Gamecocks come into this game looking to bounce back from a 66-63 loss to Vanderbilt last time out to fall to 10-7 on the year. After this game, South Carolina will head home for a game against the Florida Gators.

Gamecocks Lose 4^th In A Row

Collin Murray-Boyles leads the Gamecocks in scoring and rebounding with 15.6 PPG and 9.1 RPG while Jamarii Thomas has 12.3 PPG with a team-high 3.3 APG to lead South Carolina in the assist department this season. Nick Pringle has 10.2 PPG and 6.4 RPG to cap off the trio of double-digit scorers for South Carolina up to this point in the year while Zachary Davis has 9 PPG with 4.1 RPG and Jacobi Wright has 8.9 PPG with 2.5 APG as well this season. As a team, South Carolina is averaging 72.2 PPG on 44.1% shooting from the field, 33.2% from three and 69.6% from the foul line this season.

Why the South Carolina Gamecocks will win

• South Carolina has won nine of its last 10 games against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• Oklahoma has lost each of its last four games.

Oklahoma Recap

The Oklahoma Sooners come into this game looking to bounce back after a 77-73 loss to Texas in their last game to drop to 13-4 on the year. After this game, Oklahoma will head on the road to take on Arkansas.

Sooners Lose 4^th Straight As Well

Jalon Moore leads Oklahoma in scoring and rebounding with 18.1 PPG and 6.2 RPG while Jeremiah Fears has 16.8 PPG with 3.7 RPG and a team-high 4.2 APG to lead the Sooners in assists so far this season. Duke Miles has 11.6 PPG with 2.1 APG and 1.6 SPG to cap off the scoring in double figures for Oklahoma so far this season. Kobe Elvis has 9.2 PPG with 3.7 APG and Sam Godwin has 6.3 PPG and 5.9 RPG so far this season. As a team, Oklahoma is averaging 80.7 PPG on 48.3% shooting from the field, 36.6% from three and 80% from the foul line this season.

Why the Oklahoma Sooners will win

• Oklahoma has won 23 of its last 24 day games at Lloyd Noble Center against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• South Carolina has lost each of its last five games against the Southeastern Conference.

Oklahoma vs South Carolina Prediction

I’m on South Carolina here. I just think that you have two teams that could really use a win, and while Oklahoma has been the more talented team from a personnel perspective, the Gamecocks have been competitive in their own right. South Carolina’s lost back-to-back games by just 3 points apiece, while Oklahoma’s lost 2 of their last 3 games by 4 points or less. I just think this is going to be a game that comes down to the final few possessions, and I want the points in my back pocket.

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South Carolina is Struggling

South Carolina is struggling and they have lost three games in a row. Two games ago against Alabama they lost 88-68 and in the last game against Auburn, they ended up losing 66-63. At halftime against Auburn, they were up 40-34 but in the second half they only scored 23 points and that led to the defeat. Collin Murray-Boyles had a strong game putting up 25 points, seven rebounds, and two assists. Outside of him though there wasn’t a whole lot of production. 

South Carolina on the season is averaging 72.8 points while their defense is giving up 68.3 points per game. The offense is ranked 243rd in the league while the defense is ranked 96th. Collin Murray-Boyles is averaging 15.8 points while shooting 59.4 percent from the field. There were three different players that are averaging at least 10.7 points per game. South Carolina will meet Oklahoma after this game. 

Vanderbilt Have Issues

Vanderbilt suddenly has had some issues and they are struggling heading into this game. Two games ago against Mississippi State, they lost 76-64 and in the last game against Missouri, they ended up losing 75–66. Jason Edwards had a strong game putting up 20 points but he was the only real bright spot with the offense. Vanderbilt shot 40.4 percent from the field and 41.7 percent from behind the three-point line. 

Vanderbilt on the season is averaging 83.4 points while their defense is giving up 67.4 points per game. The offense is ranked 28th in the league while the defense is ranked 78th. They are averaging 68.8 field goals attempted per game which is 71st in the league. Guard Jason Edwards is averaging 17.2 points while shooting 45.4 percent from the field. Vanderbilt will face Tennessee following this one. 

Why Vanderbilt Will Beat South Carolina

• Vanderbilt has won nine of its last 10 games at Memorial Gymnasium.
• South Carolina has lost each of its last four games against Conference opponents.
• South Carolina has lost the first half in six of its last eight day games.

Total Points Facts

• Seven of South Carolina’s last eight games against non-AP-ranked opponents have produced a total of 143 or fewer points.
• Eight of Vanderbilt’s last 10 day games against the Southeastern Conference have produced a total of 141 or fewer points.

Vanderbilt vs South Carolina Prediction

Vanderbilt has lost two games in a row, but they are going to bounce back in a big way here. Vanderbilt’s offense is averaging 83.4 points per game and they are going to have no issue running up the score here. South Carolina’s offense is averaging 72.8 points per game and that type of offensive production isn’t going to be enough to get the job done. Back Vanderbilt to cover the spread here. 

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Auburn Recap

The Auburn Tigers come into this game looking to add on to their 87-82 win over Texas to improve their record to 14-1 on the year. After this game, Auburn will head home for a game against Mississippi State.

Tigers Win 7^th Straight

Johni Broome leads the Tigers across the board, averaging a double-double per game with team-highs of 18.7 PPG, 11.2 RPG and 3.4 APG along with 2.7 BPG while Chad Baker-Mazara has 13 PPG with 3.6 RPG and 2.8 APG. Tahaad Pettiford has 11 PPG with 2.8 APG while Denver Jones has 10.9 PPG and 2.9 APG. Chaney Johnson has 10.1 PPG with 5.4 RPG and Miles Kelly’s added 10 PPG to cap off the group of double-digit scorers for Auburn up to this point in the year. As a team, Auburn is averaging 87.9 PPG on 50.9% shooting from the field, 37.7% from behind the arc and 76.2% from the foul line this season.

Why the Auburn Tigers will win

• Auburn has won each of its last 10 games against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• South Carolina has lost 10 of its last 11 day games against AP-ranked opponents.

South Carolina Recap

The South Carolina Gamecocks enter this one looking to bounce back from an 88-68 loss at the hands of Alabama to fall to 10-5 on the year. After this game, the Gamecocks will head back out on the road for a date with Vanderbilt.

Gamecocks Drop Back-To-Back Games

Collin Murray-Boyles leads the Gamecocks in scoring and rebounding with 15.1 PPG and 9.3 RPG while Jamarii Thomas has 12.3 PPG with a team-high 3.3 APG to lead South Carolina in the assist department this season. Nick Pringle has 10.6 PPG and 6.4 RPG to cap off the trio of double-digit scorers for South Carolina up to this point in the year while Zachary Davis has 9.6 PPG with 3.9 RPG and Jacobi Wright has 9.5 PPG with 2.4 APG as well this season. As a team, South Carolina is averaging 73.4 PPG on 44.5% shooting from the field, 33.1% from three and 69.7% from the foul line this season.

Why the South Carolina Gamecocks will win

• South Carolina has won nine of its last 10 day games at Colonial Life Arena.

Total Points Facts

• Nine of Auburn’s last 10 road day games against Conference opponents have produced a total of 147 or fewer points.
• Eight of South Carolina’s last nine day games against Conference opponents at Colonial Life Arena have produced a total of 147 or fewer points.

South Carolina vs Auburn Prediction

I’m on the Auburn Tigers here. I know it’s a huge number to be laying on the road, but I already wasn’t buying into South Carolina this season and then getting torched in your first two conference games by a combined 55 points doesn’t instill a whole lot of confidence. The Texas game for Auburn wasn’t as close as that final score would indicate, and I think Bruce Pearl will be on his guys about making sure they don’t get too comfortable or complacent with their result. They coasted in the second half there but I don’t think it happens here as I think the Gamecocks are overmatched once again. Give me the Tigers in this one.

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Alabama Crimson Tide Betting Preview

The Crimson Tide were able to take wins in their first three games of the season, dispatching UNC Asheville, Arkansas State, and McNeese State in that time. Alabama lost to Purdue in game four, then took wins in their next three over Illinois, Houston, and Rutgers. Alabama would lose their November 30 matchup versus Oregon, but they’ve since hit another winning streak. Those victories came courtesy of North Carolina, Creighton, North Dakota, Kent State, South Dakota State, and Oklahoma for a 12-2 overall record so far this season.

Matched up against Oklahoma in their Saturday game, the Tide came out of the break with a 48-29 advantage and were looking pretty good. Alabama hit a 59-50 run the rest of the way in an eventual win 107-79 in the end. Leading the team in scoring was Mark Sears with 22 points, 10 assists, four rebounds, and three steals for a double-double. Labaron Philon added 16 points with five assists and four rebounds, and Grant Nelson was also able to double up in the victory on 12 points and 11 boards. Leading the bench scorers was Derrion Reed with 11 points and three rebounds. Aden Holloway also chipped in 10 points in 19 minutes.

South Carolina Gamecocks Betting Preview

Over on the Gamecocks’ side, they got off to a middling start this season but have found their stride since then. South Carolina posted a rough 3-3 run in their first six starts (against some tough competition, falling to North Florida, Indiana, and Xavier alongside wins versus South Carolina State, Towson, and Mercer. A winning streak ensued afterward featuring victories over Virginia Tech, Boston College, East Carolina, South Carolina Upstate, Clemson, Radford, and Presbyterian. The Gamecocks lost their most recent outing versus Mississippi State, though.

In the Mississippi State game over the weekend, the Gamecocks were blasted 43-18 in the first half and had very little hope of coming back. South Carolina fell even further behind the rest of the way on a 42-32 run and took the loss in the end 85-50. The only player on the team to finish in double-figures was Zachary Davis, who came off the bench to provide 22 points and three rebounds in 24 minutes on the court. Leading the starters was Nick Pringle with his eight points and three rebounds, while Jamarii Thomas added six points and six assists.

Why the South Carolina Gamecocks will win

• South Carolina has won each of its last eight games at Colonial Life Arena.
• Alabama has lost each of its last three night games against the Southeastern Conference.
• South Carolina has won the first half in 16 of its last 18 night games at Colonial Life Arena.

Why the Alabama Crimson Tide will win

• Alabama has won each of its last nine games against South Carolina.
• South Carolina has lost 21 of its last 25 games against AP-ranked opponents.
• South Carolina has lost the first half in 16 of its last 18 games against Top 5 AP-ranked opponents.

South Carolina vs Alabama Prediction

I’ll stay with the Tide here. Alabama dismantled a very good Oklahoma team in their last outing, posting 50 percent shooting from the field with a dominant effort on the boards 51-26 (22-8 offensive). The Tide committed just nine turnovers but did miss eight of their 30 attempts from the line (73.3 percent) which could have been better. That said, Alabama has been on a tear during this six-game win streak. They’ve scored 81 or more points in all six games, with 94 or more in four of them. I’d expect another big total here as well, even on the road.

As for South Carolina, they hit the wall against a talented Mississippi State squad over the weekend, posting a measly 29.1 percent shooting and 10.5 percent (2-of-19) from outside. The 40-32 rebounding deficit and 14 turnovers for 15 Bulldogs points didn’t help either. The defeat broke a seven-game win streak that featured a nice 69 or more points in each outing. South Carolina is up for another tough matchup here (which will be followed by yet another difficult game versus Auburn on Saturday) and I don’t think they’ll keep a cover pace.

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Mississippi State Bulldogs Betting Preview

The Mississippi State Bulldogs are 12-1 (0-0) this season after they defeated Bethune-Cookman by a score of 87-73 in their last game. Mississippi State led 52-45 at halftime and they held BC to just 28 points in the second half in the win. The Bulldogs shot 50.8% from the field, 32% on three-pointers, and 70.8% on free throws in the game. Riley Kugel led Mississippi State with 22 points and four rebounds, while Josh Hubbard added 16 points and two rebounds in the win.

Prior to that game, the Bulldogs defeated Memphis by a score of 79-66 and Central Michigan by a score of 83-59. Mississippi State has won six games in a row and their only loss this season was against Butler. Mississippi State has scored 83.9 points per game and they have allowed 68 points per game, while also averaging 39.5 rebounds and 17.6 assists per game this season. Josh Hubbard is averaging 17.5 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game, while Claudell Harris Jr. is averaging 10.5 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game this year. Mississippi State is shooting 46.9% from the field, 68.9% on free throws, and 34.2% on three-pointers this season. 

South Carolina Gamecocks Betting Preview

The South Carolina Gamecocks are 10-3 (0-0) this year after they defeated Presbyterian by a score of 69-59 in their last game. South Carolina trailed 32-24 at halftime, but they scored 45 points in the second half for the win. The Gamecocks shot 45.8% from the field, 38.5% on three-pointers, and 66.7% on free throws in the game. Collin Murray-Boyles led South Carolina with 22 points and nine rebounds, while Nick Pringle added 14 points and five rebounds in the game. 

Prior to that win, the Gamecocks defeated Radford by a score of 74-48 and Clemson by a score of 91-88. South Carolina has won seven games in a row, including two wins over Virginia Tech and Boston College. South Carolina has scored 75.6 points per game and they have allowed 65.6 points per game, while also averaging 36.8 rebounds and 14.5 assists per game this season. Collin Murray-Boyles is averaging 16.6 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game, while Jamarii Thomas is averaging 12.6 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game this year. South Carolina is shooting 45.8% from the field, 69.2% on free throws, and 35.2% on three-pointers this season. 

Why Mississippi State will beat South Carolina

• Mississippi State has won each of its last nine games at Humphrey Coliseum against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• South Carolina has lost nine of its last 10 day games against AP-ranked opponents.
• South Carolina has lost the first half in each of its last nine day games against AP-ranked opponents.

Why South Carolina will beat Mississippi State

• South Carolina has won each of its last seven games.
• South Carolina has won the first half in four of its last five day games against Mississippi State.

Total Points Facts

• Fifteen of Mississippi State’s last 16 day games against Conference opponents have produced a total of 141 or fewer points.
• Nineteen of South Carolina’s last 24 games against Conference opponents have produced a total of 142 or fewer points.

Mississippi State vs South Carolina Prediction 

Mississippi State comes into conference play with just one loss on the season and they will be at home for this game. The Bulldogs do have ranked wins against Memphis and Pittsburgh, while also beating Utah and SMU. Mississippi State is scoring nearly 84 points per game and they are averaging 39.5 rebounds per game. South Carolina does have a ranked win against Clemson, but they also have a bad loss against North Florida. The Gamecocks don’t have the offensive numbers that Mississippi State has, but their defense has been slightly better. This should be a pretty good battle to open SEC play and I think we are going to see a lower-scoring game, as South Carolina tries to really slow things down. Take the under in this contest. 

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South Carolina Gamecocks Betting Preview

This year the Gamecocks posted a shaky 3-3 start, taking losses to LSU, Ole Miss and Alabama along the way. South Carolina has since won six straight though, dispatching Oklahoma, Texas A&M, Vanderbilt, Missouri, Wofford and Clemson in that time.

Matched up against Clemson on November 30, the Gamecocks were down 14-7 going into the final quarter. South Carolina scored 10 unanswered points from there to take a comeback win 17-14. QB LaNorris Sellers passed for 164 yards and led the rush on 166 yards with two ground scores.

Illinois Fighting Illini Betting Preview

Over on the Illinois side, they won six of their first seven over Eastern Illinois, Kansas, Central Michigan, Nebraska, Purdue and Michigan. The Illini would fall to Oregon and Minnesota before three more wins over Michigan State, Rutgers and Northwestern.

In the regular season finale versus Northwestern on November 30, the Illini held a 14-10 edge in the locker room. Illinois scored another 24 points in the second during a 38-28 win. QB Luke Altmyer threw for 170 yards, one TD and two picks, but Aidan Laughery did most of the scoring on 172 yards and three rush touchdowns.

Illinois vs South Carolina Prediction

I’m going with South Carolina here but I wouldn’t mind seeing a thinner line. It’ll be a fun game regardless, though. The Gamecocks have been very impressive during this six-game win streak; they’ve taken out three ranked teams along the way while holding opponents to 14 or fewer points four times. One of those times was against Clemson in their last outing, as South Carolina powered through three turnovers and a tepid 164 passing yards to get the three-point win.

As for Illinois, they didn’t play great football in their last game against a struggling Northwestern squad. The Illini put up just 14 first downs and 170 passing yards, but did notch four takeaways on defense. Illinois has given up a combined 59 points in their last two outings, but they’ve scored an even 38 themselves in each of the last three. I don’t think the Illini will be able to move the ball so well against that South Carolina defense however, so I like the Gamecocks cover-wise here. Should be a good one to watch, though.

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