South Carolina vs. Virginia Tech prediction, odds: 2025 Week 1 college football picks by expert on 14-2 roll

South Carolina vs. Virginia Tech: High-Stakes Showdown in 2025 Aflac Kickoff Game Key Developments: The highly anticipated 2025 season opener between No. 13 South Carolina and Virginia Tech is set to kick off the new college football campaign this Sunday. According to SportsLine expert Mike Tierney, who boasts an impressive 14-2 run of picks, the Gamecocks are favored to emerge victorious over the Hokies in this marquee matchup. Context & Background: This opening clash marks the first time these two programs have met since 2018, when South Carolina edged out Virginia Tech 35-31 in a close, back-and-forth contest. The Gamecocks will look to extend their recent dominance in the series, having won three of the last four meetings dating back to 2015. Both teams enter the 2025 season with high expectations and talented rosters. South Carolina, led by dynamic dual-threat quarterback Jayden Daniels, is aiming to build on an 11-win campaign and a top-15 finish in the final polls last year. Meanwhile, Virginia Tech is seeking to rebound from a disappointing 7-5 season and reclaim its status as a perennial ACC contender under veteran head coach Brent Pry. Impact Analysis: This game carries significant implications for both programs. A win for South Carolina would solidify its position as a legitimate national title contender, while a loss could dampen its aspirations and create early-season pressure. For Virginia Tech, a victory over a top-15 opponent would be a major statement and provide a much-needed boost of confidence heading into the rest of the schedule. Beyond the teams themselves, this matchup also holds high stakes for individual players looking to showcase their skills and enhance their NFL draft prospects. Daniels, who is projected as a first-round pick, will have the opportunity to put on a dazzling performance against a talented Hokies defense. On the other side, Virginia Tech's defensive standouts, such as linebacker Dax Hollifield and cornerback Dorian Strong, will look to disrupt the Gamecocks' high-powered offense. Expert Perspective: Tierney's analysis and pick for this game carry significant weight, given his impressive track record and expertise in college football. The veteran analyst has highlighted South Carolina's overall depth and experience as key factors in his prediction, noting that the Gamecocks' ability to rotate fresh players on both sides of the ball could ultimately wear down the Hokies. However, Tierney also acknowledges that Virginia Tech's defensive prowess and the potential for a hostile road environment in Columbia could present challenges for South Carolina. The Hokies' ability to contain Daniels and force turnovers could be the x-factor in keeping the game close and potentially pulling off the upset. Looking Forward: Regardless of the outcome, this clash between South Carolina and Virginia Tech is sure to captivate college football fans and set the tone for the 2025 season. A Gamecocks victory would solidify their status as a national title contender, while a Hokies win would shake up the early-season rankings and provide a much-needed boost to their program. As the teams prepare for this highly anticipated showdown, all eyes will be on the quarterback matchup between Daniels and Virginia Tech's own signal-caller, Tahj Bullock, as well as the battle between the Gamecocks' stifling defense and the Hokies' potent offense. This game has the potential to be a thrilling, back-and-forth affair that coul