Auburn vs South Carolina: Last-Minute Spread Info and Predictions

If this upcoming SEC battle between the Auburn Tigers and No 10. South Carolina Gamecocks is not a must-win, then I don't know what is.

The Tigers are coming in with one loss and the weight of a defending national championship on their backs.

The Gamecocks are protecting the home field and are undefeated so far, but it hasn't been an easy road getting there.

Both teams have shown some major flaws that need to be fixed ASAP if they are serious about making a run at the SEC. Auburn may seem out of it, but they have to keep fighting. South Carolina's schedule will only get tougher as the games go on.

Every game in the SEC is the biggest game on the schedule, so going by that criteria this game is huge.

Current Betting Line (Bodog.com): South Carolina -10

What's At Stake

This game is obviously huge for the Gamecocks. They are trying to show that they belong amongst the likes of Alabama and LSU, so that means that they must win this game at home. Auburn, on the other hand, has dropped out of the top 25 after winning the BCS championship last year, so any win over a highly ranked opponent would be huge for their confidence and standings.

Last-Second Injury News

Auburn: Offensive lineman Ed Christian questionable (back), tight end Philip Lutzenkirchen questionable (leg), wide receiver Trovon Reed out indefinitely (shoulder).

South Carolina: Running back Eric Baker probable (knee), cornerback Akeem Auguste questionable (foot), wide receiver Jason Barnes questionable (undisclosed injury).

Key Matchup

Everything right now for the Gamecocks has to be focused on quarterback Stephen Garcia and his ability to control the football. He's been horrible so far, only throwing three touchdowns compared to seven interceptions.

The Gamecocks should be able to control this game and come away with a big win, but if Auburn and their explosive defense can rattle Garcia and force him into turnovers, then they have a great shot at an upset.

Sleepers To Watch

Auburn receiver Emory Blake is going to have to play a huge part in this game if the Tigers want to pull of a win on the road. Blake has 16 receptions for 317 yards and four touchdowns so far. He's going to need to have a big game.

Gamecocks sophomore quarterback Connor Shaw may end up playing a huge role in this game. If Garcia crumbles, which is highly possible, Steve Spurrier wouldn't hesitate to pull him, and then all of a sudden this whole season is on the shoulders of the young Shaw. It will be interesting to see how Spurrier handles that potential situation.

Prediction

The Tigers will give the Gamecocks quite a scare early, but I think South Carolina is a superior team that handles adversity well. They will pull off a comeback and a great win for the program.

South Carolina 31, Auburn 20