Vanderbilt vs. South Carolina: Spread and Predictions

To say that the SEC matchup between Vanderbilt and No. 12 South Carolina doesn't mean anything would be a huge understatement.

In fact, it means everything to both teams involved.

The Commodores are coming in with a red hot 3-0 start and looking to show the SEC that they are a legitimate threat.

The Gamecocks on the other hand, are trying to prove the college football world that they are a legitimate threat for the BCS championship, so this game couldn't mean any more.

Vanderbilt is looking for a huge program win and South Carolina needs to get a home win here before the season get's tougher.

You couldn't ask for a better matchup.

Current Betting Line: (Bodog.com) South Carolina -15 1/2

What's at Stake

It simple, the Commodores have their legitimacy on the line. They've started off strong and a win over the Gamecocks would put their team on the map.

South Carolina is the clear favorite to win this game and they know it. Their schedule will only get harder from here on out, so they need to take care of business and not get stuck in the trap game mentality.

Last-Second Injury News

Vanderbilt: Tight end Brandon Bardon doubtful (ankle), running back Warren Norman doubtful (knee), receiver John Cole expected to miss (leg).

South Carolina: Defensive back Akeem Auguste questionable (foot), receiver DL Moore questionable (ankle).

Key Matchup

Vanderbilt's defense against Gamecock's running back Marcus Lattimore is the matchup I'll be looking out for. Lattimore is an early Heisman candidate with 534 yards and 7 touchdowns so far. If the Commodores can't stop him early I have a feeling he's going to run all over their defense.

Sleepers to Watch:

Vanderbilt wideout Chris Boyd has seven catches this season, three of which have been touchdowns. If the Commodores want to win he's going to have to play a huge part in the offense.

Jadeveon Clowny was the top recruit this year and already looks like a beast. He's going to become the premier pass rusher in the nation soon enough, but I expect him to cause havoc against Vanderbilt.

Prediction:

The Commodores have been hot, but South Carolina is simply the far better team.

South Carolina 38, Vanderbilt 13