South Carolina vs Virginia Tech Odds
| South Carolina Odds | ||
|---|---|---|
| Spread | Total | Moneyline |
-5.5 -115 | 139.5 -110o / -110u | -250 |
| Virginia Tech Odds | ||
|---|---|---|
| Spread | Total | Moneyline |
+5.5 -105 | 139.5 -110o / -110u | +200 |
Virginia Tech and South Carolina had disappointing 2022-23 seasons, but both started this season in better fashion. So, what should you look for in this matchup between two difficult-to-diagnose teams? I've got you covered as I share my pick for South Carolina vs. Virginia Tech in this college basketball betting preview below.
South Carolina Gamecocks
South Carolina didn't win much in coach Lamont Paris' first season, but it went 18-14 against the spread. That's the type of winning that matters around here. So, congratulations, South Carolina! Will the positive ATS numbers continue?
South Carolina had to improve its talent base in the offseason following a forgettable first season under Paris. He brought in veterans B.J. Mack (Wofford) and Ta'Lon Cooper (Minnesota) to complement the scoring of returning guard Meechie Johnson.
The Gamecocks win over USC Upstate proved South Carolina's success hinges on Cooper. The veteran guard spent last season at Minnesota, but spent the previous three at Morehead State. Cooper is known for his passing, but he scored 17 points to lead the Gamecocks in the season-opening victory. The size difference between Cooper and Sean Pedulla, Virginia Tech's point guard, will be noticeable — and potentially impactful.
Will Cooper try to post up on Pedulla? That's certainly an option.
Virginia Tech Hokies
Coach Mike Young is one of the sharpest offensive minds in the game. Young has compiled a trio of winning seasons since taking the Virginia Tech job, but missed the tournament last season. The Hokies need to get on track early by winning games like this.
Before the season began, Virginia Tech's depth took a hit when Rodney Rice left the program. That allowed North Carolina transfer Tyler Nickel to slide into the lineup, and he contributed 12 points and seven rebounds in his first game with the Hokies.
Oh, I can't forget to gush about Pedulla, the veteran point guard in Blacksburg. He's easily one of the top ACC guards and began the season with 15 points and 10 assists after putting together an all-conference worthy season in 2022-23.
Hunter Cattoor is one of the most decorated shooters in program history. The fifth-year senior is shooting 42% from 3 in his four years and has attempted over 600 3's. Even if Cattoor doesn't have the ball, the gravity he generates makes defenses pay extra attention.
South Carolina vs. Virginia Tech
Betting Pick & Prediction
I don't love either side in this one as both teams have a lot of questions.
That's why I'm looking at the total.
Virginia Tech loves to shoot the ball from deep and that'll continue in this one as coach Young will scheme up ways for Pedulla to set up Nickel, Cattoor and MJ Collins for perimeter looks.
South Carolina also has plenty of trustworthy scorers to help push the total over.
The Pick: Over 141.5 | Play to 143
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