The Matchup: South Carolina (3-2, 2-2) vs. Kentucky (3-1, 1-1)
The Venue: Commonwealth Stadium in Lexington, Ky.
The Kick: 7:30 p.m. ET
TV: SEC Network
Series record: South Carolina leads the all-time series with a record of 17-7-1.

Last meeting: South Carolina’s built a 24-7 halftime lead at home before Kentucky scored 21 points in the fourth quarter to nearly upset the 13th-ranked Gamecocks.

Coaches: Steve Spurrier (222-81-2); Mark Stoops (5-10)

Last game (South Carolina): The Gamecocks suffered their second home loss of the season, squandering a two-touchdown lead in the final seven minutes against Missouri, 21-20.

Last game (Kentucky): The Wildcats limited Vanderbilt to eight first downs and held a commanding 17-minute time of possession advantage during a 17-7 win, their first in the SEC since November 2011.

Kentucky wins if: The Wildcats can provide consistent pressure on South Carolina quarterback Dylan Thompson. Frustrated throughout a dismal outing against Mizzou, Thompson was shaky from the pocket, never found a rhythm and was sacked four times. If Kentucky controls the line of scrimmage, the Wildcats win.

South Carolina wins if: The Gamecocks don’t suffer a hangover effect from last week’s crippling home loss to Mizzou. The preseason Eastern Division favorites have issues on both sides of the ball and already have two SEC losses, but still feel a trip to Atlanta’s possible if they win out. Getting back to the basics of running the football is key in Lexington.

What it means if Kentucky wins: The Wildcats move into serious contention for an Eastern Division championship with games against Georgia and Mizzou — potential favorites — still remaining. It would almost assure Kentucky of a bowl invite as well.

What it means if South Carolina wins: Steve Spurrier’s completes the first step toward winning out and reaching the SEC Championship Game. Seriously, that’s the last goal on the Gamecocks’ minds at the moment. Improving week-to-week is paramount right now.