South Carolina vs. Missouri: Spread Analysis and Pick Prediction

The bulk of the early money was on Missouri to cover 2.5 points against erratic South Carolina and a huge majority of wagers were on the OVER 52.5, just as the OddsShark.com computer has predicted.

Can Mizzou justify its lofty rank and climb even higher or is this a trap game for Tigers backers?

Point spread: Missouri opened as 2.5-point favorites; the total was 52.5 as of Wednesday. (Line updates and Matchup report)

Computer Prediction: 39-27 Missouri

Why the Gamecocks can cover the spread

After South Carolina fought back to take a lead in the third quarter last week against Tennessee, the Volunteers used two fourth-quarter field goals to score a 23-21 upset. The Gamecocks are going to be fired up to avenge that loss and possibly take advantage of an unassuming Missouri team. 

Why the Tigers can cover the spread

When undefeated Missouri was revealed as the fifth-ranked team in the first Bowl Championship Series standings of the season, it was a monumental accomplishment for a team that was unranked until early October. Now the bar has been raised and a quality win here could leapfrog the Tigers over BCS No. 4 Ohio State.

South Carolina has stumbled as an underdog lately, losing five of six in this role, according to OddsShark.com's matchup report.

Smart Pick

The Tigers' defense is too dangerous to ignore, no matter who they're playing. Missouri has limited opponents to 22.1 points and 381 yards per game, including just 116.6 rushing yards. The Tigers lead the Southeastern Conference with 23 sacks, while defensive end Michael Sam is tied for first nationally with nine.

Trends:

Missouri is 5-1 ATS the past six home games.

South Carolina has lost five of the past six games as an underdog.

Note: All spread and odds data powered by Odds Shark - follow them on Twitter for injury updates and line move updates.