Advantage Plays
Game #128 South Carolina/Georgia UNDER 44
Who would have thought that Steve Spurrier would be better know for a defensive team than his offensive schemes? That is what he has at South Carolina this year and in more recent memory. Both of these teams are Top 5 in defense but only the 'Dawgs have any offensive cohesion. Things won't get any easier for the Gamecocks with their top wideout, Kenny McKinley expected to miss. However, this is a huge game for Spurrier and his squad as a loss will basically eliminate them in their tough SEC division. They won't have as much trouble corralling GA. quarterback Matt Stafford, as he is fa less nimble than Vandy QB Nickson, and Stafford is also playing behind a inexperienced offensive line. I am looking for Carolina to blitz the hell out of Stafford and his new linemen and attempt to keep RB Moreno from doing the damage, forcing the game into someone else's hands. The USC Secondary has allowed only 139 yards passing TOTAL in the first two games combined, so Stafford will have his struggles. Obviously, USC has the "two-headed quarterback" issue and neither has stepped forward. Meanwhile, the 'Dawgs have been penalty machines in the early going with 20 combined in the first two games.
This series has been a very low scoring affair over the years and with the weaknesses of the Carolina offense and the strengths of both defenses, it should easily continue. The games have averaged 28 points over the past ten games (Last year was exactly that, 16-12) and has never exceed 38 in that time. I was quite surprised to see a a total this high based on history. With a few extra days to prepare, the USC defense should rise to the challenge and keep this game close. Another one that falls somewhere near the 28 point range.