South Carolina +8.5 2.2% play
First of all, Arkansas and South Carolina were among my favorite teams to back last year. I love both of these head coaches, and the players seem to show they do as well, but to me the value is on the Gamecocks. Arkansas had a much tougher challenge in week 1 against Cincinnati that they likely prepared for more than South Carolina against Georgia State. Also, Arkansas is entering into a territory we have not seen in a decade. This is just the 6th time they are a favorite vs. an SEC foe since 2012, and it’s their largest favorite role in that span. I just don’t see this team gaining separation in this one as they are a run first team, and while they should have success running I think they may have trouble turning it into TD’s in this one.
South Carolina was a top 25 pass defense last year, and KJ Jefferson has been great at QB for Arkansas but he played just 4 top 60 pass defenses a season ago and they went 1-3 in those games. South Carolina’s offense also should be greatly improved. For one they are healthy, and they now have a veteran OL, but also Arkansas only returns 4 starters, just 1 on the defensive line and have injury concerns at corner. Cincinnati’s new QB Ben Bryant threw for 325 yards and missed several players deep. I think we should see a quality game for Spencer Rattler and even if Arkansas gets up by double digits, South Carolina should have the capability to cover through the back door given the way Arkansas plays defense, and their issues in the secondary. This team also has shown they don’t quit on Beamer, and they have an edge in special teams here that should be evident.
