South Carolina hosts Georgia at Colonial Life Arena on March 4 at 6:00 PM ET. Georgia is 18-11 overall and 6-10 in the SEC, while South Carolina is 12-17 with a 2-14 conference record. Georgia won the last meeting 71-60 on January 28.
The Bulldogs are coming off two big wins over Florida and Texas, helping their NCAA Tournament chances. South Carolina dominated Arkansas in their last game, fueled by a career-high 35 points from Collin Murray-Boyles. Both teams look to build momentum late in the season.
South Carolina Preview – Can They Build Off Their Last Win?
South Carolina snapped a losing streak with a 72-53 win over Arkansas. The Gamecocks held Arkansas to 28.8% shooting and just 3-of-22 from three-point range. Collin Murray-Boyles led the way with 35 points and has scored 84 points over his last three games.
South Carolina’s offense averages 71.2 points per game while shooting 45.1% from the field. Murray-Boyles has been their main scorer, while Nyck Pringle has contributed inside with rebounding and scoring. Guard Zachary Davis has also helped with perimeter defense and passing.
The Gamecocks’ defense has struggled, allowing opponents to shoot 46.4%. They give up an average of 75.6 points per game and have had trouble defending the three-point line, ranking 297th in opponent three-point percentage. At home, they are 10-7 but just 2-7 in conference play.
South Carolina has also struggled against the spread, going 13-15-1 this season. They are 11-10 ATS at home but only 2-7 in conference games. They will need another strong defensive effort to slow down Georgia’s offense.
Georgia Preview – Can They Stay Hot?
Georgia has won two straight, beating Florida and Texas while shooting over 50% in both games. Silas Demary has been on fire, averaging 20.5 points over his last six games. Asa Newell and Blue Cain are also key contributors on offense.
The Bulldogs average 75.6 points per game and shoot 46.4% from the field. Demary has stepped up in recent games, shooting 15-of-26 in their two wins. Newell is their leading scorer, providing inside scoring and rebounding. Cain has also been in double figures over the last five games, helping balance the offense.
Defensively, Georgia allows 71.2 points per game and holds teams to 45.1% shooting. They were able to contain Florida’s top scorer and held Texas to just 67 points in their last game. Their defense has been inconsistent this season, but they have played well in recent matchups.
Against the spread, Georgia is 15-14 and has covered in 22 of their last 37 games. They have also hit the under in 22 of 38 games. If they continue their strong shooting and defensive improvement, they should have an edge in this matchup.
Betting Prediction
Georgia comes into this game with momentum and a better overall record. They have been more efficient offensively and have improved their defense in recent games. South Carolina has struggled all season, especially against SEC teams.
Georgia is favored and should win this game. The total has gone under in both of their last two meetings, making the under a solid play. Expect Georgia to pull away late.
Pick: Georgia Bulldogs -3.5, Under 135.5
Enjoy the game!
