Updated report
In what appears to be a huge mix-up, VegasInsider.com has actually reversed the point spreads for the Gamecocks' Outback Bowl matchup with Michigan. At this time, Michigan is heavily favored with the line steadily rising.
Earlier today, we reported that the Gamecocks were favored by 8.5 over the Wolverines based on the VegasInsider line movements. That report was incorrect, though VegasInsider is still showing the incorrect spread. Michigan actually opened favored by 8.5 points.
5-dimes, BetOnline.ag, Donbest and others are all currently showing South Carolina as a 8.5-10 point underdog, and we believe these to be the correct lines.
This will mark the eighth game in the 2017 season in which the Gamecocks were the underdog. USC is 6-1 against the spread in the seven previous matchups, with the only failed cover being the Clemson game.
Original report, later found to be inaccurate.
South Carolina opened as an 8.5-point favorite to beat the Michigan Wolverines in the Outback Bowl according to VegasInsider.com
The Gamecocks face a Wolverines team that fell short of expectations in 2017, starting in the Top 10 and finishing 8-4 overall and 5-4 in the Big Ten. The 2017 Gamecocks exceeded expectations with their 8-4 record and 5-3 finish in the SEC in just the second year of Will Muschamp's tenure.
South Carolina has faced Michigan three times their history with the Gamecocks holding a 2-1 advantage in those contests. The Gamecocks defeated Michigan 17-14 in the 'Big House' in 1980 before Michigan returned the favor at Williams-Brice Stadium, defeating South Carolina 34-3 in 1985.
The most recent matchup saw the Gamecocks defeat Michigan 33-28 in a wild game with several lead changes, including the Gamecocks scoring a game-winning touchdown with 11 seconds left.
That game is mostly recognized by arguably the most famous play in South Carolina football history, Jadeveon Clowney's 'The Hit' on Vincent Smith. That play followed a controversial measurement and resulted in a recovered fumble by the Gamecocks leading to a touchdown pass to Ace Sanders.
The Gamecocks hope to rekindle that magic from five years ago when they face the Wolverines in Tampa on New Year’s Day.
Who: Gamecocks (8-4, 5-3 SEC) vs Wolverines (8-4, 5-4 Big Ten)
Where: Raymond James Stadium (65,890) Tampa, FL
When: January 1st at 12:00 PM
Watch: ESPN 2
