Akron Zips at South Carolina Gamecocks Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 9/21/2024 7:30 PM EST

We have your Akron Zips at South Carolina Gamecocks prop betting and game preview needs covered as the Akron Zips hit the road to face the South Carolina Gamecocks.

Akron Zips at South Carolina Gamecocks Odds Info

Best Moneyline Odds: Akron Zips +2000 (BetMGM) / South Carolina Gamecocks -5000 (ESPN Bet)
Best Spread Odds: -27.5 - Akron Zips -110 (bet365) / -27.0 - South Carolina Gamecocks -110 (Caesars)
Best Total Odds: 47.0 - Under -110 (bet365) / 46.5 - Over -110 (ESPN BET)

Game Info

Date: 9/21/2024
Time: 7:30 PM EST
Location: Williams-Brice Stadium (Columbia, SC)
TV: ESPNU

Akron Zips at South Carolina Gamecocks Preview

The Akron Zips are set to face a formidable challenge as they travel to Columbia to take on the South Carolina Gamecocks. Coming off a morale-boosting 31-20 victory over the Colgate Raiders, the Zips will be looking to carry that momentum into their matchup against a South Carolina team that narrowly lost to LSU in a thrilling 36-33 contest. Akron's quarterback, Ben Finley, showcased his potential against Colgate, completing 28 of 43 passes for 358 yards, four touchdowns, and one interception. His performance will be crucial if the Zips hope to compete against a Gamecocks defense that has shown vulnerability, particularly in their recent loss to LSU.

On the other side, South Carolina will be eager to bounce back from their defeat and capitalize on their home-field advantage at Williams-Brice Stadium. The Gamecocks' offense, led by LaNorris Sellers, demonstrated its potency with Sellers contributing significantly on the ground with 88 rushing yards and two touchdowns against LSU. The Gamecocks' running back, Raheim Sanders, also proved to be a key player, amassing 143 rushing yards and two touchdowns. This dynamic offensive duo will pose a significant threat to Akron's defense, which will need to be at its best to contain them.

With the Gamecocks being heavy favorites, the Zips will need to deliver an exceptional performance to pull off an upset. The odds are stacked against Akron, with South Carolina being 27.5-point favorites, reflecting the challenge that lies ahead for the Zips. As both teams prepare for this non-conference clash, the Gamecocks will aim to assert their dominance early, while Akron will look to build on their recent success and prove they can compete against higher-caliber opponents.

Akron Zips at South Carolina Gamecocks Pick: South Carolina Gamecocks Moneyline

In the upcoming matchup between the Akron Zips and the South Carolina Gamecocks, the odds heavily favor the Gamecocks, and for good reason. South Carolina, despite a narrow loss to LSU, has demonstrated a potent offensive capability, particularly through the dynamic performances of quarterback LaNorris Sellers and running back Raheim Sanders. Sellers' dual-threat ability was on full display against LSU, where he not only contributed 113 passing yards but also added 88 rushing yards and two touchdowns. Sanders further bolstered the offense with 143 rushing yards and two touchdowns, showcasing a balanced attack that can exploit Akron's defensive vulnerabilities.

On the other hand, while Akron's quarterback Ben Finley had an impressive outing against Colgate, throwing for 358 yards and four touchdowns, the level of competition he faced was significantly lower than what South Carolina presents. The Gamecocks' defense, although tested by LSU, will be a step up from what the Zips encountered in their previous game. Moreover, the Gamecocks will have the advantage of playing at home in Williams-Brice Stadium, a venue known for its challenging atmosphere for visiting teams.

Given the Gamecocks' offensive prowess and home-field advantage, coupled with Akron's recent struggles against higher-caliber teams, the pick for this game is the South Carolina Gamecocks on the moneyline. The odds reflect the disparity between the two teams, with South Carolina being a 27.5-point favorite, underscoring the expectation of a decisive victory for the Gamecocks. As Akron looks to build on their win against Colgate, the reality of facing a formidable SEC opponent on the road presents a daunting challenge that is likely to be too much for the Zips to overcome.