South Carolina Football: Game-by-game predictions for 2018

COLUMBIA, SC - SEPTEMBER 23: Ty'Son Williams #27 of the South Carolina Gamecocks reacts after scoring a touchdown against the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs during their game at Williams-Brice Stadium on September 23, 2017 in Columbia, South Carolina. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

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(Photo by Scott Cunningham/Getty Images) /

From opening week, things ratchet up quickly for South Carolina as Georgia comes to Columbia. Last year’s meeting in Athens saw the Bulldogs pull out a 24-10 victory and continue their winning streak against the Gamecocks, which now stands at three straight.

Georgia is coming off an SEC championship and first ever College Football Playoff appearance, knocking off Oklahoma in the Rose Bowl before falling to Alabama in the National Championship game. The expectations are high to be right back in the playoff chase this fall. While the Bulldogs lose some key parts, they are the favorite to win the SEC East again.

Quarterback Jake Fromm is fighting for his job in camp but still should win out. Despite losing running backs Sony Michel and Nick Chubb, the backfield should still be fine with highly talented D’Andre Swift ready to live up to his last name.

This will be a big test for the Gamecocks to prove they are ready to take the next step. Quarterback Jake Bentley will need to stand tall against Georgia’s tough defense. This one will be closer than expected, with Georgia scoring a late touchdown to take the lead. South Carolina will have one last chance, but Bentley will throw an interception to seal the Gamecocks fate.

Final: Georgia 24, South Carolina 20 (1-1, 0-1 SEC)