South Carolina State Bulldogs vs Charleston Southern Buccaneers Predictions

Bulldogs can control the matchup up front

South Carolina State University Athletics reports that the Bulldogs have recorded 21 sacks and limited opponents to 2.7 yards per carry. Charleston Southern has allowed 23 sacks. That matchup should help South Carolina State disrupt quarterback Lek Powell and cover the 6.5-point SPF spread.

South Carolina State also has a clear production advantage. The Bulldogs average 44.33 points and 459.7 yards per game while allowing 14.17 points and 231.0 yards. Charleston Southern averages 23.60 points and 276.0 yards while conceding 16.60 points and 292.2 yards.

The Bulldogs enter at 5-1 after a 34-31 loss to The Citadel, while the Buccaneers are 2-3 following a 12-10 loss to Gardner-Webb. South Carolina State quarterback Keely Watson has thrown 11 touchdown passes against three interceptions, and Mason Pickett-Hicks has rushed for 703 yards on 82 carries.

Prediction and best bet

SPF lists South Carolina State at -6.5 and -221 on the moneyline, with Charleston Southern at +6.5 and +174. The Bulldogs are the likely winner, but the moneyline asks bettors to pay a steep price. Their statistical advantage and favorable pass-rush matchup make South Carolina State -6.5 the better wager.

Projected score: South Carolina State 24, Charleston Southern 13.