South Carolina vs. Tennessee: College Football Week 5 Odds & Picks (2023)
In Week 4, we had two competitive games late but were unable to cash another long-shot winner after three consecutive positive weeks. Conference play continues to ramp up as we see more teams that are familiar with each other battle. These conference games often breed huge long-shot winners.
Here are my favorite outright, large underdogs for this weekend. And here’s a deeper dive on South Carolina vs. Tennessee.
Best College Football Week 5 Long Shot Bets: South Carolina vs. Tennessee
(Odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook)
South Carolina (+380) at #21 Tennessee (-11.5)
This game was a classic last year. The Gamecocks outlasted the Volunteers, as QB Spencer Rattler went off for 438 yards and six touchdowns in a 63-38 win. The Volunteer defense has looked a lot better this season but against some lesser competition. The line for this game seems a little ridiculous, and frankly, I like South Carolina to win outright.
Tennessee has looked dominant in their three wins, but against a solid defense in Florida, QB Joe Milton looked pedestrian. South Carolina isn't exactly a solid defense, but they've played a pretty loaded schedule to this point. Losses to North Carolina and Georgia saw them stay in those games late. Last week, the Gamecocks beat Mississippi State in a high-scoring game. The defense isn't going to win them any SEC title, but it could be enough to beat Tennessee.
It's the offense of South Carolina that has me excited about this one. Rattler has picked up right where he left off, averaging over 300 yards per game with seven touchdowns on the season. In Tennessee's loss to Florida, QB Graham Mertz didn't light up the box score, but he did manage to post a 92.5 QBR. Rattler is more talented and comfortable in his offense and should be able to shine. South Carolina is comfortable playing in these kinds of shootouts, but Tennessee might not have as strong of an offense as we thought before the season. It's the Gamecock offense that will give them the advantage, but don't be surprised if the defense makes enough key plays to pull this one out.
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