South Carolina Gamecocks at Illinois Fighting Illini Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 12/31/2024 3:00 PM EST

We have your South Carolina Gamecocks at Illinois Fighting Illini prop betting and game preview needs covered as the South Carolina Gamecocks hit the road to face the Illinois Fighting Illini.

South Carolina Gamecocks at Illinois Fighting Illini Odds Info

Best Moneyline Odds: South Carolina Gamecocks -410 (FanDuel) / Illinois Fighting Illini +315 (FanDuel)
Best Spread Odds: 10.5 - South Carolina Gamecocks -110 (ESPN BET) / Illinois Fighting Illini -110 (ESPN BET)
Best Total Odds: 47.5 - Under -110 (FanDuel) / Over -110 (FanDuel)

Game Info

Date: 12/31/2024
Time: 3:00 PM EST
Location: Camping World Stadium (Orlando, FL)
TV: ABC

South Carolina Gamecocks at Illinois Fighting Illini Preview

The South Carolina Gamecocks and Illinois Fighting Illini are set to clash in what promises to be an intriguing matchup at the Citrus Bowl. Both teams enter the game with identical 9-3 records, showcasing their prowess throughout the season. South Carolina, under the guidance of coach Shane Beamer, has been vocal about their College Football Playoff snub, yet they have channeled that disappointment into motivation for this bowl game. The Gamecocks have been a formidable force, with quarterback LaNorris Sellers leading the charge. Sellers has been impressive, and his connection with Mazeo Bennett, who is expected to make significant plays, will be crucial. On the defensive side, Dylan Stewart, fresh off a major NIL deal, is a key player to watch, especially after his two-sack performance against Clemson.

Illinois, led by junior quarterback Luke Altmyer, has also had a remarkable season. Altmyer, who transferred from Ole Miss, has thrown for 2,543 yards and 21 touchdowns, demonstrating his ability to lead the Illini offense effectively. His partnership with receiver Pat Bryant has been instrumental in Illinois' success, and they will look to exploit any weaknesses in the South Carolina defense. Despite their strong season, there are whispers about Altmyer's future, with the transfer portal looming as a potential option for the talented quarterback. However, his focus remains on securing a victory for Illinois in this high-stakes matchup.

Both teams have shown resilience and skill throughout the season, and this game is expected to be a showcase of their talents. With South Carolina's potent offense and Illinois' dynamic playmaking abilities, fans can anticipate an exciting and competitive contest at Camping World Stadium.

South Carolina Gamecocks at Illinois Fighting Illini Pick: Total Points Over

As we look ahead to the Citrus Bowl clash between the South Carolina Gamecocks and the Illinois Fighting Illini, the potential for a high-scoring affair is evident. Both teams have demonstrated offensive prowess throughout the season, making the case for the total points to go over the set line of 47.5. South Carolina's offense, led by quarterback LaNorris Sellers, has been a force to reckon with. Sellers has shown his ability to rack up yards and touchdowns, as evidenced by his impressive performance against Clemson, where he threw for over 300 yards. His connection with Mazeo Bennett, who is expected to be a key playmaker, adds another layer of threat to the Gamecocks' offensive arsenal.

On the other side, Illinois' junior quarterback Luke Altmyer has been equally impressive, amassing 2,543 passing yards and 21 touchdowns this season. His partnership with receiver Pat Bryant has been a cornerstone of the Illini's offensive strategy, and they have consistently found ways to exploit defenses. Altmyer's ability to lead game-winning drives and his knack for finding the end zone make Illinois a formidable opponent capable of putting up points.

Both teams have shown resilience and the ability to score in bunches, which suggests that this matchup could turn into a shootout. With South Carolina's potent offense and Illinois' dynamic playmaking abilities, the stage is set for an exciting and high-scoring contest. Fans can expect both teams to capitalize on their offensive strengths, pushing the total points over the projected line.

South Carolina Gamecocks at Illinois Fighting Illini Top Player Prop Picks

LaNorris Sellers Over 300.5 Passing Yards Passing Yards -110 (FanDuel)

LaNorris Sellers has been a standout performer for the South Carolina Gamecocks this season, and his ability to deliver in high-pressure situations makes him a prime candidate to exceed 300.5 passing yards in the Citrus Bowl. Sellers has already demonstrated his prowess by throwing for over 300 yards against Clemson, a game that showcased his arm strength and accuracy. With a strong connection to Mazeo Bennett, who is expected to be a significant playmaker, Sellers has the tools and targets to exploit the Illinois defense. Given his recent performances and the motivation stemming from South Carolina's College Football Playoff snub, Sellers is poised to put up big numbers in this matchup.

Luke Altmyer Over 2.5 Passing Touchdowns Passing Touchdowns -110 (FanDuel)

Luke Altmyer has been a revelation for the Illinois Fighting Illini, leading them to a successful 9-3 season with his impressive passing abilities. Altmyer has thrown for 21 touchdowns this season, and his partnership with receiver Pat Bryant has been a key factor in Illinois' offensive success. With the Citrus Bowl providing a platform to showcase his talents, Altmyer is likely to continue his trend of finding the end zone. His ability to lead game-winning drives and his knack for connecting with his receivers in crucial moments make the over on 2.5 passing touchdowns an enticing proposition. Altmyer's focus on securing a victory for Illinois, despite the looming transfer portal, adds an extra layer of motivation for him to perform at his best.

Dylan Stewart Over 1.5 Sacks Defensive Sacks -110 (FanDuel)

Dylan Stewart has been a defensive powerhouse for the South Carolina Gamecocks, and his recent performances suggest he is more than capable of exceeding 1.5 sacks in the Citrus Bowl. Stewart's two-sack performance against Clemson highlighted his ability to disrupt opposing offenses and make impactful plays. With a major NIL deal secured, Stewart is not only motivated to perform but also to solidify his reputation as a top defensive talent. Facing an Illinois offensive line that will have its hands full with South Carolina's defensive schemes, Stewart is in a prime position to capitalize and add to his sack total. His presence on the field is a game-changer, and he is expected to be a key factor in South Carolina's defensive strategy against Illinois.