Game Preview and Analysis

The Gamecocks and Wolverines square off for the second time this decade and look to get their 2018 started off on the right foot.

First off, who can forget the hit:

The Gamecocks and Wolverines will meet for the first time since their 2013 classic in the Outback Bowl that featured one of the most insane hits of all time.

For South Carolina, they are riding high after exceeding expectations and hitting the eight win plateau for the first time since 2013. Meanwhile, Michigan fell below their lofty pre-season expectations and capped off the disappointing season with another loss to their hated rival Ohio State.

With that being said, it will be interesting to see which team comes out more motivated and ready to play. Both teams could use positive momentum going into the 2018 off-season and a bowl win is always a huge boost.

One of the biggest changes for South Carolina coming into this game is at offensive coordinator. Kurt Roper was relieved of duties at the beginning of December and the play calling duties now fall in the hands of Bryan McClendon. He will have a stern first test, as Michigan sports one of the best defenses in all of college football. Meanwhile, the Wolverines have had struggles of their own on offense, going through three different QB’s this season.

Look for this to be a hard fought, low scoring affair between the Big Ten and SEC. While South Carolina may be more motivated in this contest, Michigan has too much defensive talent to let this one get away. Expect this game to be very close and low scoring with Michigan pulling it out late.

Prediction: Michigan 20, South Carolina 17