Kent State vs South Carolina Picks and Predictions for Saturday, September 5th, 2026

By: Cameron Ross Published 09/04/2026, 11:23 PM ET

Kent State vs South Carolina Game Information

Kent State will begin its 2026 campaign Saturday afternoon with a trip to Columbia, South Carolina, for a 12:45 PM matchup against the South Carolina Gamecocks at Williams-Brice Stadium. The Golden Flashes showed some improvement last season, finishing 5-7 overall after winning 3 of their final 5 games. South Carolina comes into its season opener looking to bounce back from a disappointing 4-8 campaign. The Gamecocks lost 4 of their final 5 games to end 2025. Stay in the loop with our College Football Picks.

Kent State Preview

Dru DeShields returns to the season for Kent State as the leader of the offense. DeShields was phenomenal a year ago, compiling 2,030 yards and 18 scores on 136 completions, along with 3 scores on 61 carries on the ground. Wayne Harris has the top receiver back from a year ago for Kent State after 383 yards and 1 touchdown on 35 catches. Ardell Banks also returned and will likely see an increase this year after 205 yards and 2 scores on 12 grabs.

South Carolina Preview

LaNorris Sellers returns this year for South Carolina to again lead their offense. Last season, Sellers compiled 2437 yards and 13 touchdowns on 178 completions, along with 270 yards and 5 touchdowns on 149 carries. Matt Fuller is the top ball carrier this season for South Carolina after 260 yards and 2 scores on 72 carries. Nyck Harbor is the top receiver returning from a year ago after 618 yards and 6 touchdowns on 30 receptions. Jayden Sellers also returns to the season for South Carolina after 337 yards and 1 score on 22 grabs.

Kent State vs South Carolina Pick

South Carolina has a massive advantage in talent, size, and athleticism coming into Saturday’s matchup. Kent State will struggle to contain the Gamecocks offense or consistently move the ball against their defense. Look for South Carolina to dominate from the opening kickoff and put this game out of reach well before halftime as the Gamecocks roll to an easy blowout victory and cover at home.

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  • Pick: South Carolina Gamecocks -35.5
  • Secondary: Over 53.5

Final Score Prediction: South Carolina Gamecocks win and cover 49-7.

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