South Carolina vs. Illinois: Predictions, odds for the Citrus Bowl
The college football bowl season heats up with the fiercely competitive Cheez-It Citrus Bowl, featuring a high-stakes matchup between the South Carolina Gamecocks and the Illinois Fighting Illini at the renowned Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida.
The Gamecocks, with a commendable record of 9-3 and a fourth-place finish in the SEC conference, are set to showcase the talent of their rising star, freshman quarterback LaNorris Sellers. Sellers, who has already made a mark and has entered the 2025 Heisman Trophy conversation, led South Carolina's offense in his debut season with an impressive completion rate of 64.9%. His 2,274 passing yards, 17 touchdowns, and seven interceptions, along with 655 rushing yards and seven rushing touchdowns, was a testament to his versatility.
The Fighting Illini, who wrapped up the regular season with a commendable 9-3 record, secured the fifth spot in the highly competitive Big Ten. Their strength lies in their quarterback, Luke Altmyer, who has been a standout performer this season. Altmyer's passing game has been impressive, with a total of 2,543 yards, 21 touchdowns, and a mere five interceptions. He has also contributed to the team's rushing game with 219 yards and four rushing touchdowns.
Here's everything you need to know before the Gamecocks and the Fighting Illini face off in the Citrus Bowl.
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Citrus Bowl predictions: South Carolina vs. Illinois
Paste BN: South Carolina is unanimous pick
- Scooby Axson: South Carolina
- Jordan Mendoza: South Carolina
- Paul Myerberg: South Carolina
- Erick Smith: South Carolina
- Eddie Timanus: South Carolina
- Dan Wolken: South Carolina
ESPN: South Carolina 27, Illinois 22
Adam Rittenberg writes: "Both teams responded well from losing seasons in 2023 to go 9-3 and finish in the top 20 of the final CFP rankings. South Carolina had a bit better case for CFP inclusion, although two of Illinois' three defeats came against playoff teams. The quarterback matchup could be one of the better ones in bowl season, as Illinois' Luke Altmyer, who began his career in the SEC at Ole Miss, will share the field with South Carolina's LaNorris Sellers, an exceptional talent who will be on the 2025 Heisman Trophy radar. If South Carolina can limit opt-outs, especially from its exceptional defense, it should do enough to outlast a very solid Illinois squad."
College Football Network: South Carolina 31, Illinois 24
Staff writes: "If South Carolina can run the ball on offense, especially with its running backs, the Gamecocks’ offense should be able to control the ball, clock, and the game. That being said, Sellers could simply go into Superman mode again and win single-handedly. Don’t be surprised if these coaches have some tricks up their sleeves, especially on special teams. Ultimately, I like the Gamecocks in an entertaining game, but I think the Illini can cover. Take the over, as I think both teams will play aggressively in search of that elusive 10th victory."
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Citrus Bowl odds, lines: South Carolina vs. Illinois
The South Carolina Gamecocks are favorites to defeat the Illinois Fighting Illini, according to the BetMGM college football odds.
Odds as of Monday, Dec. 30.
- Spread: South Carolina (-10)
- Moneylines: South Carolina (-400); Illinois (+310)
- Over/under: 49.5
How to watch South Carolina vs. Illinois in the Citrus Bowl
- Date: Tuesday, Dec. 31
- Time: 3 p.m. ET
- TV: ABC
- Stream: Fubo
- Where: Camping World Stadium (Orlando, FL)
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