Gamecocks open as 10.5 point favorite vs Illinois

[18IsTheMan]

I know some are disappointed that we didn't get a marquee name to play against, but I suspect this will be a tougher than expected matchup.

 

[92Pony]

Agreed!

 

[Fried Chicken]

Yeah, we typically have played bowl games where I feel we’re the underdog role (Ohio State, Michigan, Nebraska). Less tradition, winning historically, etc so it’s an opportunity to beat them when maybe they aren’t at the top of their game, but still a big name. I know Illinois has some rich tradition with Red Grange and all that, but feels like we’re the bigger program in this one and they are the ones with the big opportunity, though we’re playing pretty well. I always feel that’s a big role in the “consolation” bowl games. USF, UConn, etc have beat us in Bowl Games.

That 10.5 is higher than I expected. I thought 5.5 on a neutral field.

 

[18IsTheMan]

Yeah, we typically have played bowl games where I feel we’re the underdog role (Ohio State, Michigan, Nebraska). Less tradition, winning historically, etc so it’s an opportunity to beat them when maybe they aren’t at the top of their game, but still a big name. I know Illinois has some rich tradition with Red Grange and all that, but feels like we’re the bigger program in this one and they are the ones with the big opportunity, though we’re playing pretty well. I always feel that’s a big role in the “consolation” bowl games. USF, UConn, etc have beat us in Bowl Games.

That 10.5 is higher than I expected. I thought 5.5 on a neutral field.

Oh, man, I could have done without the Papa John's reminder, lol. Brutal.

I'm sure my thoughts leading up to the game were the same as every other Gamecock fan. "We're playing UConn? In football? Easy win, baby!""

 

[w8280]

Yeah, we typically have played bowl games where I feel we’re the underdog role (Ohio State, Michigan, Nebraska). Less tradition, winning historically, etc so it’s an opportunity to beat them when maybe they aren’t at the top of their game, but still a big name. I know Illinois has some rich tradition with Red Grange and all that, but feels like we’re the bigger program in this one and they are the ones with the big opportunity, though we’re playing pretty well. I always feel that’s a big role in the “consolation” bowl games. USF, UConn, etc have beat us in Bowl Games.

That 10.5 is higher than I expected. I thought 5.5 on a neutral field.

The spread will likely change based on the opt outs

 

[Thunderstick]

The spread will likely change based on the opt outs

...and more importantly, the incoming money. Of course opts out will play a part in the incoming monies!