By Nevada Sharpshooter
The South Carolina Gamecocks travel to Kentucky to square off against the Wildcats. South Carolina will rely on QB Chris Smelley, who had 327 yards passing and 3 TDs at a good Mississippi team last week. The win was the first in conference for the Gamecocks and brings there SEC record to 1-2. The Gamecock defense is also playing well and was ranked #1 in the country going into last weeks game vs Miss.
Kentucky at Louisville, August 31, 2008
The Wildcats of Kentucky and Cardinals of Louisville open up their seasons in the Governors’ Cup. While Kentucky is returning 15 starters, they will rely on a new QB in sophomore Mike Hartline who has thrown a total of 6 passes in his collegiate career. Hartline has four strong RBs to help carry the load in Tony Dixon, Alfonso Smith, Derrick Locke and Moncell Allen.
Louisville has had more than it’s share of problems over the last year. After limping through a 6-6 campaign last year it is yet to be seen if the Cardinals have the talent to return to elite status. While QB Hunter Cantwell is a NFL prospect, he will be throwing to a pair of sophomore receivers in Troy Pascley and Doug Beaumont, who do not have a career reception between them. On defense Louisville will start 3 LBs who have not played a down for the Cardinals.
With all of the new faces in Louisville, I do not believe they will be able to get off to a good start. I look for Kentucky to get the outright win. Take Kentucky +3.5 over Louisville.
The Nevada Sharpshooter provides free sports picks every day on his page at FreePlays.com.