South Carolina football: Gamecocks’ chances of making each bowl game
By Jacob Elsey
Gator and Duke’s Mayo Bowls – < 50% CHANCE
Gator Bowl
Dec. 31, 2021
Jacksonville, FL at TIAA Bank Field
Believe it or not, the Gamecocks appeared in the first ever Gator Bowl back in 1945. That ended in a 26-14 loss to Wake Forest. South Carolina would go on to play in the 1980, 1984, and 1987 editions, all three of which were defeats.
Those teams in the 80s were some of the program’s best, seeing players like George Rogers, Sterling Sharpe, and Harold Green take the field. The four appearances in the bowl game are the second most in school history, but making a fifth showing is unlikely. The Gator Bowl usually sees SEC versus ACC competition, but they typically have one of the first picks when it comes to which program represents each league. It may take seven wins to be considered.
Duke’s Mayo Bowl
Dec. 30, 2021
Charlotte, NC at Bank of America Stadium
Formerly known as the Belk Bowl, the Duke’s Mayo Bowl also pits the SEC and ACC in a postseason matchup. The game is played at BOA Stadium, the home of the Carolina Panthers.
South Carolina is familiar with the venue, having played numerous season opening matchups in Charlotte. They’ve also appeared in the bowl game once, losing 28-0 to Virginia in 2018. South Carolina could find themselves in this year’s matchup with a solid season, but it may take seven wins to get the invite. We’re tabbing the team’s chances at less than 50% for this year.