Columbia, South Carolina: Gamecocks Eye Bowl Game Opportunities
As the 2023 college football season approaches its final stretch, the University of South Carolina Gamecocks are looking forward to a potential bowl game, after likely missing out on the College Football Playoff chase. With a chance to secure their first 10-win season since 2013, the team ponders where they might land and who they might face.
What’s Next for the Gamecocks?
The upcoming bowl season presents an exciting opportunity for the Gamecocks. Currently sitting at 9-3, the Gamecocks seek to complete their season on a high note with a victory in a bowl game, which would mark only the fifth 10-win season in the program’s history.
Where Could They Play?
Multiple possibilities exist for the Gamecocks depending on final rankings and bowl selection processes. The Citrus Bowl in Orlando, Florida, scheduled for December 31st, is the most coveted destination. It holds the first pick of non-playoff Southeastern Conference (SEC) teams and could select the Gamecocks if current top contender Ole Miss either slips into the playoff or falls behind South Carolina in the rankings by the selection date.
Realistic Opponents
If South Carolina does land in the Citrus Bowl, they would likely face off against Illinois, the only other ranked team from the Big Ten outside of those expected to make the playoffs. This matchup would hold particular interest as Justin Stepp, the former wide receivers coach at South Carolina, is now a part of Illinois’ coaching staff.
Other Bowl Options
If the Citrus Bowl does not pan out, the “pool of six” bowls comes into play, featuring a variety of locations and potential matchups. These include:
- ReliaQuest Bowl in Tampa, Florida
- TaxSlayer Gator Bowl in Jacksonville, Florida
- Transperfect Music City Bowl in Nashville, Tennessee
- SRS Distributors Las Vegas Bowl in Las Vegas, Nevada
- Tax Act Texas Bowl in Houston, Texas
- Autozone Liberty Bowl in Memphis, Tennessee
Potential Matchups
The ReliaQuest Bowl typically attracts an SEC team matched with a Big Ten opponent. Should South Carolina be selected, they might face Iowa based on win totals, or potentially Michigan given their strong fanbase and recent performances.
Meanwhile, the Gator Bowl in Jacksonville has the benefit of proximity to Columbia, being only four hours away. If selected, South Carolina could see teams like Syracuse, Duke, or Louisville from the ACC.
Nashville, known for its vibrant atmosphere, could also become a destination for the Gamecocks as they join a growing list of SEC teams.
Geographic Considerations
Travel distances play a significant role in bowl selection. Houston and Memphis may be less likely options due to closer proximity of other SEC bowl-eligible teams, which might draw more attendance and ticket sales.
Conclusion
As the Gamecocks prepare for the postseason, their future remains somewhat flexible. The chance to secure a 10-win season is an exciting prospect, with several bowl opportunities alight on the horizon. The next few days will be crucial in determining both their opponent and venue, as South Carolina aims to capture victory and build on their successful season.
