The 2010 college football season is here! I’ve been pouring over all the depth charts and statistics all summer long to help get an edge on the books this year. I am currently the #1 ranked handicapper on the planet! Last year, my college football picks cashed 70% of the time! All year long HunterSportsPicks.com will be your destination for previews of the big games, betting strategies, and free college football picks.
Southern Mississippi (0-0) vs. South Carolina (0-0) Betting Lines from 5dimes
MoneyLine: South Carolina (-550) vs. Southern Mississippi (+425)
Spread: South Carolina Gamecocks -14
Over/Under: 47
Southern Mississippi
I already pegged the Golden Eagles as one of my five most underrated teams going into this season, so I obviously like something about this team. While the team has been decent the last couple of years, injuries have slowed them down in a big way. I think Larry Fedora’s team is ready to breakout as long as they stay healthy in 2010. DeAndre Brown is a stud at the wide receiver spot and he’ll be a tough cover for every single opponent the Golden Eagles take on this year. Austin Davis is a solid quarterback who should be able to lead this offense efficiently.
The Golden Eagles defense returns nine starters and I expect them to be one of the best defenses in Conference USA. This defense is skilled and very fast, and they are headed by a group of linebackers that are all over the field. The secondary isn’t as strong as the front seven, but I expect them to be improved from a year ago.
South Carolina
Steve Spurrier’s Gamecocks just haven’t been able to get over the hump in the last few years. They have been a popular pick to breakout almost every year, but they have been unable to do so. They certainly have the talent to make some noise in 2010, but will they be able to overcome the obvious weaknesses?
The defensive secondary will be one of the best in the nation, with two terrific corners and some solid leadership at the safety position. On the offensive side, the backfield will be loaded. Freshman Marcus Lattimore is a highly touted recruit, and don’t be surprised to see him make an impact right away. The wide receivers are a very talented bunch that give South Carolina the ability to air it out.
The big question marks are the offensive line and the quarterback play for the Gamecocks. Stephen Garcia has shown glimpses of greatness, but he makes far too many bad decisions with the football. Connor Shaw might get playing time as a freshman, but he’ll need time in the system. The offensive line allowed 37 sacks last year and the Gamecocks were last in the SEC in rushing yards last year as well.
College Football Betting Trends:
Southern Mississippi is 11-5 ATS in their last 16 road games
South Carolina is 4-0 ATS in their last 4 September games
Southern Mississippi is 2-6 ATS in their last 8 against SEC teams
Prediction:
I think this game will be a hard fought football game. It is opening night and there are likely to be some jitters at the start of the game. The Golden Eagles definitely have the speed and athletic ability to make this a great game. South Carolina will need to get their passing game going to be successful on offense in this one.
I think Southern Mississippi is a solid play as the underdog in this one if you are able to get at least 14 points! Take the dog and the points here.
I have a huge Thursday Night Top Total Play on this game as well. Get this huge winner and other guaranteed sports picks all year long! I hit 70% of my college football plays last year and I’m ready to smash the books again!
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