South Carolina -6.5 2.2% play

The Gamecocks' dual-threat QB LaNorris Sellers, backed by veteran OC Mike Shula's pro-style schemes, should exploit VT's revamped defense under a first-year coordinator, generating enough explosive plays to build a multi-score lead.

Defensively, Clayton White's turnover-forcing unit, which excelled against spread offenses like Oklahoma's last year, will disrupt VT's up-tempo attack led by QB Kyron Drones, limiting points and helping SC pull away in the second half.

With 78% of spread bets on South Carolina and expert picks leaning their way, the Gamecocks' momentum and talent edge make covering the spread likely in this neutral-site opene