ESPN analytics model predicts final score for South Carolina's season opener

There are just four days until South Carolina football takes the field for its season opener against Virginia Tech. The Gamecocks enter the contest as a favorite in the neutral-site matchup, though the contest should serve as a measuring stick of sorts for two teams with a lot of new faces.

According to ESPN’s SP+ analytics model, Carolina could cover the spread. Most betting lines have USC favored by 7.5 or 8.5 points, including BetMGM’s 7.5-point spread. The worldwide leader is predicting a 30-21 victory for the Gamecocks. ESPN also gives USC a 72% of victory.

That point total is right around the expected over/under. Some outlets have that number set as low as 49.5 points, with the 51-point projection representing an over. BetMGM, though, has an over/under of 52.5, making 51 points an under hit.

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The final SP+ rankings this preseason listed South Carolina as the No. 17 team in college football. Virginia Tech slotted in at No. 42.

According to the metrics, the Gamecocks edge in Hokies in offensive efficiency (26th nationally, compared to 49th). Carolina also gets the nod defensively (18th, as opposed to 39th in the country). However, VT comes out ahead on special teams (37th overall vs. 50th).

South Carolina’s 16.0 rating in the preseason SP+ was 10th in the SEC. That number has since moved up to 16.1, but the team’s spot in the rankings remained unchanged. With a quality win opportunity coming and multiple teams ahead of the Gamecocks facing tough opponents, early-season upward mobility is possible.

South Carolina and Virginia Tech will kick off at 3:00 p.m. on Sunday. ESPN will broadcast the contest, while the ESPN app streams it.

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