Old Dominion Monarchs vs
South Carolina GamecocksPredictions & Preview

South Carolina Gamecocks Favored By Three Touchdowns Over Old Dominion Monarchs in NCAA Football Opener

The Monarchs of Old Dominion University will travel to South Carolina to face the Gamecocks in the opening game of the 2024 NCAA Football season. Despite Old Dominion's success against South Carolina in basketball, this will be the first football match-up between the two teams. The game is set for Saturday, August 31 at 4:15 PM EST at Williams-Brice Stadium, with South Carolina favored by 21 points and a total of 53.5. The current line has South Carolina as the favorite at -21.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Monarchs +874 | Gamecocks -1600
• Spread: Monarchs +21 (-110) | Gamecocks -21 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 52 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that South Carolina will win straight-up is 94%.

Old Dominion vs South Carolina Stats

Old Dominion Monarchs

Old Dominion football team, playing in the Sun Belt Conference, had a 6-7 record last season, earning a spot in the Famous Toastery Bowl where they lost to Western Kentucky in an exciting overtime game. This season, they aim for their 3rd bowl game in 4 seasons but face a tough opening schedule, including games against Carolina and Virginia Tech. QB Grant Wilson returns but the team faces challenges with a young roster and key players lost to the transfer portal. The offense averaged 23.8 points per game last season, while the defense allowed 27.2 points. With a power ranking of 83, Old Dominion is currently ranked 87 in offense, 71 in defense, and is 0-0 this season.

South Carolina Gamecocks Analysis

South Carolina Gamecocks, under the coaching of Shane Beamer in his third season, are currently facing challenges as they appear to be moving in the wrong direction. Despite a combined record of 23-18, the team only won 5 out of 12 games last year. The team's offense is relying on new faces, including dual-threat freshman QB LaNorris Sellers and ALL-SEC RB Raheim Sanders. The defense struggled last season, allowing 26.3 points per game and 395.7 total yards, particularly vulnerable against the pass. However, there was improvement towards the end of the season, indicating potential for growth. The team is currently ranked 81st in power rankings, with #76 offense and #64 defense.Facing Old Dominion next, the Gamecocks will need to rely on their rushing attack and defensive leaders to improve their performance and secure a victory.

Gamecocks Favored to Cover Three-Touchdown Spread Against Monarchs

The current line for this match is at 3 touchdowns, which some may consider to be conservative given the disparity in talent between the teams. While the Gamecocks struggled in 2023, it's important to note that they have undergone significant changes this season, particularly on offense. With the formidable duo of Sellers and Sanders leading the charge, South Carolina's offense is expected to excel against Old D's defense. On the defensive side, the Gamecocks have shown improvement towards the end of the previous season and are returning a majority of their starters, indicating a strong foundation for success. In contrast, the Monarchs' young and inexperienced offense may have difficulty in finding success against a seasoned defense. Reheim Sanders is predicted to shine in his return, making a significant impact for the Gamecocks. Considering these factors, it is recommended to place the wager on the Gamecocks covering the three-touchdown spread.

Sources: [ 1 ] [ 2 ] [ 3 ] [ 4 ] [ 5 ] [ 6 ] [ 7 ] [ 8 ] [ 9 ] [ 10 ]