ESPN’s SP+ predicts final score of South Carolina vs Virginia Tech Week 1
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No.13 South Carolina is preparing to kick off its season at Mercedes Benz Stadium for the 2025 AFLAC kick-off game this weekend. In a Sunday showdown, the Gamecocks will face off against Virginia Tech in Week 1.
Historically, South Carolina holds a slight edge in their series with the Hokies, boasting a record of 11 wins, 7 losses and 2 ties. Currently riding a two-game winning streak against Virginia Tech, the last clash between these teams dates back to 1991 when South Carolina prevailed 28-21.
ESPN’s SP+ projections have Shane Beamer and his squad favored to secure the victory 30-21 over Virginia Tech in their opening matchup.
As they step into Shane Beamer’s fifth season at the helm, the Gamecocks boast an overall record of 29-22 and have made 3 bowl game appearances. After being named the AP’s SEC coach of the Year in 2024 for leading his team to a 9-4 record, Beamer aims to continue building momentum into this new season. The Gamecocks enter this match with their highest AP ranking since 2014 where they were No. 9.
On the flip side, Virginia Tech will be leaning heavily on new faces and their defense as they prepare to challenge their SEC opponent. Under fourth-year head coach Brent Pry, who holds a record of 16-21 overall and who is 1-1 in bowl games, the Hokies are looking to rebound after finishing 6-7 overall and splitting their ACC games 4-4.
Unfortunately, for them, they closed out last year on a rough note—losing 4 out of their 5 games- including a tough postseason defeat against Minnesota (21-10) in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl. Heading into week 1 unranked and projected to finish 11th in the ACC adds extra pressure; can they turn things around?
Kickoff is set for 3 p.m. ET with live coverage available on ESPN.
Lee Ann joins the Saturday Down South team, bringing over fifteen years of experience covering the SEC as both a sports journalist and football scout. With her keen eye for talent, she has also flexes her skills as the Director of Recruiting for the Rebel Walk( Ole Miss) Herring, is a staff writer at USA Today Sports Wildcats Wire, where she dives into the thrilling world of Kentucky football and basketball. When fall rolls around, you can catch her on air as an analyst for the Wake up 502 College Football Show on Big X Sports Radio 96.1 FM—because who doesn't love a good game day chat? A proud Brown University alum, Lee Ann balances her time between the sidelines and press box with her passion for coaching her boys' youth lacrosse and savoring a fine glass of bourbon alongside a good cigar. So, whether she's dissecting plays or rallying the next generation of athletes, Lee Ann is your spirited insider ready to tackle all things SEC!
