Game Date: September 14, 2024, 12:00 PM
Location: Williams-Brice Stadium
Matchup: LSU Tigers (1-1) vs South Carolina Gamecocks (2-0)
Betting Pick: LSU -6.5 or -7 points
Lead-in: LSU’s pass defense was tested and exposed by USC in Week 1, but South Carolina’s offense has struggled in the passing game this season. The Gamecocks' passing attack has been underwhelming, and they’re unlikely to improve against LSU’s defense. With LSU's talent on both sides of the ball, the Tigers are the pick to cover the spread in this Week 3 matchup.
Betting Odds Overview
Moneyline: LSU -260 to -275, South Carolina +210 to +225
Spread: LSU -6.5 to -7 (-110 to -120), South Carolina +6.5 to +7 (-110)
Total (Over/Under): 50.5 to 50 points
Team Insights
LSU Tigers
LSU enters this game with a 1-1 record, having bounced back from a Week 1 loss to USC with a 44-21 win over Nicholls State. The Tigers' defense struggled against USC's high-powered passing game, allowing 378 yards through the air. However, South Carolina's passing game is far less dangerous, having averaged only 140 yards per game so far this season.
On offense, LSU has been effective, scoring 32 points per game and averaging over 309 passing yards per game. With South Carolina’s defense having allowed 120.5 passing yards per game, LSU’s aerial attack should continue to thrive.
South Carolina Gamecocks
South Carolina has started the season 2-0 but hasn’t been particularly impressive offensively. The Gamecocks managed just 23 points against Old Dominion and 31 points against Kentucky, with their passing game being a significant weak spot, averaging only 140 passing yards per game.
While the Gamecocks' defense has performed well, allowing just 12.5 points per game, LSU’s offense represents the toughest test they’ve faced so far. South Carolina's underwhelming offense, especially in the air, makes it difficult to see them keeping pace with LSU in this matchup.
Key Matchups
LSU Offense vs. South Carolina Defense
LSU’s passing attack, averaging 309 yards per game, is a significant advantage in this matchup. South Carolina’s pass defense has been solid, allowing 120.5 passing yards per game, but they have not faced an offense of LSU’s caliber yet. The Tigers' balance on offense, with both passing and rushing threats, makes them a difficult team to defend.
South Carolina Offense vs. LSU Defense
South Carolina’s passing game has been a weakness, averaging just 140 yards per game, and they’ll face an LSU defense that struggled against a potent USC offense but should have an easier time against the Gamecocks. LSU’s secondary, while exposed by USC, is unlikely to face much of a challenge from South Carolina’s underperforming aerial attack.
Conclusion and ATS Pick
LSU is the stronger team in this matchup and should cover the spread against South Carolina. The Tigers' defense, while exploited by USC, should have no problem containing the Gamecocks’ limited passing game. Meanwhile, LSU’s potent offense should generate enough points to comfortably win and cover the -6.5 or -7 spread. Bet on LSU to win and cover.
