Tennessee Volunteers vs South Carolina Gamecocks Predictions

Tennessee vs. South Carolina odds

South Carolina is a 2.5-point home favorite and -135 on the moneyline. Tennessee is +114, and the total is 50.5 with -110 odds on both sides. Those prices make the Gamecocks the likely winner, but they don't offer much margin for lineup uncertainty.

Matchup outlook

Tennessee has won three straight since a 20-17 loss at Texas, including a 26-10 victory over Alabama. South Carolina is 3-3 overall and 1-3 in the SEC, though it entered its open week after beating Florida 38-19. Those results make Tennessee dangerous despite its underdog price.

The Southern Line reports that South Carolina will be without defensive back Quay'sheed Scott, receiver Jayden Sellers, edge rusher Kobby Sakyi-Prah, offensive tackle Josiah Thompson and offensive lineman Seth Smith. Running back Jawarn Howell is doubtful, while center Carter Miller is probable. That list makes South Carolina difficult to back at -135.

Tennessee also has several season-ending absences, including left guard Wendell Moe, safeties Edrees Farooq and Dylan Lewis, tight end Ethan Davis, receiver and returner Joakim Dodson, linebacker Jaedon Harmon and cornerback Jadais Richard. The final SEC availability report is due 90 minutes before kickoff, so a wager placed earlier would carry added lineup risk.

Prediction and betting analysis

South Carolina gets the narrow winner projection because SPF lists the Gamecocks as the home favorite. A score prediction isn't supportable without confirmed starters or reliable team statistics. Tennessee's recent wins argue against laying -135, but missing evidence isn't a reason to bet the underdog. Pass.