Tennessee sports bettors should look into captivating SEC football showdowns coming up soon. One college football matchup for a compelling betting opportunity to check out is the Florida Gators (4-2) and South Carolina Gamecocks (2-3).
When: October 14, 2023 at 3:30 PM ET
Where: Williams-Brice Stadium in Columbia, South Carolina
Watch: SECN
Florida Gators Preview
The Gators had no issues taking care of business with a 38-14 win at home against the Vanderbilt Commodores. This put them back on track after a tough loss against the Kentucky Wildcats in the previous week of games.
They improved offensively to 409.7 total yards a game, with 256.7 coming from passing yards. Their defense was stout, as they continue to allow teams to average 287.0 total and have 166.7 dedicated to passing. If these numbers continue, they can cause problems in the SEC.
Quarterback Graham Mertz had one of his best games of the year against the Commodores. Against a weaker team, he should stand out. He currently ranks 45th in the nation with a QBR of 65.3, as he has accumulated 1,474 yards, nine touchdowns, and just two interceptions.
The Gators have put up 27.1 points per game and slow teams down to 16.8. When they lose, it has been by double digits. This is a solid margin for victory, but they must be strong on both ends of the field.
South Carolina Gamecocks Preview
The Gamecocks had an opportunity to make a positive statement with their recent matchup against the Tennessee Volunteers. However, they were blasted away with a 41-20 outing on the road that was only close after the first quarter of action.
They are competitive with total yards at 399.2, with a heavy passing presence of 312.2 yards. Their defense has failed them in a few games, as they give up 443.0 total yards with 301.4 stemming from passes. Giving up too many yards against the Gators spells trouble.
Spencer Rattler (QB) has been a key component in their success, as he ranks 28th in the nation with his QBR at 73.9. He has eclipsed 1,400 yards and has seven touchdowns, but he must keep interceptions (currently three) to a minimum. This should be an appealing matchup against Mertz.
The Gamecocks typically average 28.8 points per game, but their defense has tarnished that success as they allow 26.5. If they can keep their mistakes to a minimum and improve their defense, they have a great chance at winning.
Betting Odds
ZenSports is revolutionizing the sports betting landscape in Tennessee with an extensive selection of college football betting choices, aiming to deliver an unparalleled betting adventure. According to market analysis, the South Carolina Gamecocks hold a slight advantage with a 57.5 percent likelihood of securing victory.
Florida Gators
Spread: +2 (-110)
South Carolina Gamecocks
Spread: -2 (-110)
Totals: Over 51.5 (-110), Under 51.5 (-110)
Photo Credit: © Matt Pendleton/Gainesville Sun / USA TODAY NETWORK