Greg McElroy picks Alabama to beat South Carolina, leans Gamecocks to cover

Alabama gets a bit of a break (or as much of a break as you can get in the SEC) this weekend when it travels to South Carolina for a clash with an unranked opponent for the first time in five weeks. The Crimson Tide have climbed all the way to No. 4 in the AP Poll after rattling off four consecutive wins over ranked opponents: No. 5 Georgia, No. 16 Vanderbilt, No. 14 Missouri and No. 11 Tennessee.

Meanwhile, South Carolina has dropped four of its last five games after opening the season with a 2-0 record. This game is equally as important for Shane Beamer‘s program, as it would have to win three of its final four games (No. 8 Ole Miss, No. 3 Texas A&M, Coastal Carolina and Clemson) to clinch bowl eligibility with a loss to the Crimson Tide in Columbia.

Ahead of that matchup, ESPN‘s Greg McElroy gave his prediction on the ‘Always College Football‘ podcast. Although McElroy is rolling with his alma mater to get the win, he is predicting a close game between the Tide and the Gamecocks.

“Kalen DeBoer and Alabama are aggressive in critical situations,” McElroy said. “They are 10-16 on fourth down attempts (that’s more than any team in the SEC). They are very, very trustworthy of their offensive scheme. Alabama is also very trustworthy in its quarterback and they believe in being aggressive when they’re just beyond midfield. Even in some cases, in their own territory. They’ll go for it.”

McElroy puts emphasis on getting third-down stops for Carolina

“So I think for South Carolina, if Ty Simpson is not going to throw it to them (which he’s proven in his first seven games that he’s probably not going to do), they’ve got to get some stops on third down,” McElroy continued. “Those are just as good as a turnover. So that’s big. On fourth down when Alabama decides to roll the dice, South Carolina has to step up in those situations and make a play.”

“I’m taking Alabama, but I would not be surprised if this is a low-scoring, close, competitive football game for three-plus quarters. I’d probably lean towards taking the points in this one. I think it’s gonna be a close game, but I do think Alabama prevails in what will be a gutsy win on the road in Williams-Brice.”

Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson has stood out this season, passing for 1,931 yards, 18 touchdowns and just one interception across seven games. South Carolina quarterback LaNorris Sellers was also expected to be in the thick of the Heisman Trophy race, but that just hasn’t been the case. Sellers, who has been a bit banged up this season, boasts just 1,134 passing yards, five passing touchdowns and two interceptions in the same span.

Last season, however, Sellers passed for 238 yards, two touchdowns and one interception in a 27-25 loss to Alabama in Tuscaloosa. He and his team will be looking for a performance like that one at home this weekend in Columbia. Kickoff on Saturday is scheduled for 3:30 PM ET. The game can be seen on ABC.

---

DISCLAIMER: This site is 100% for entertainment purposes only and does not involve real money betting.

The content provided in this article is intended for entertainment purposes only. All views and opinions expressed are the authors and reflect their individual perspectives on sports, betting, and related topics. This content should not be considered professional betting advice or the official views of On3. Please gamble responsibly. If you or someone you know is experiencing issues related to gambling, seek help from a licensed health professional. This blog is not liable for any losses, damages, or consequences resulting from betting activities.

Bets and betting odds data are powered by BetMGM. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (available in the US), Call 1-800-327-5050 (MA), 1-800-NEXT-STEP (AZ), 1-800-522-4700 (KS), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-270-7117 (MI), Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Must be 21+. Visit BetMGM.com for terms and conditions. First Bet Offer for new customers only (if applicable). Subject to eligibility requirements.”