South Carolina vs. UConn betting odds and a prediction with national title trip on the line

The No. 1 seeded South Carolina Gamecocks are back in the Final Four for a sixth straight time. Unlike in year's past, the Gamecocks will face the No. 1 seeded UConn Huskies without having played them in the regular season. 

Geno Auriemma's Husky team hasn't lost all season, and this will be one of South Carolina's toughest teams it has faced yet. Although the Gamecocks set an SEC record in point differential (+161) through the first four games, UConn's defense ranks first nationally in scoring defense, allowing just 50.1 points per game. 

Here's a look at the final game odds before Friday evening. 

  Odds provided by FanDuel Sportsbook

Spread 

• UConn (-6.5) -118

• South Carolina (+6.5) -102

Moneyline 

• South Carolina (+245) 

• UConn (-305) 

Total 

•  O/U: 136.5 (-110) 

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Final score prediction: South Carolina 68, UConn 67 

Sure, I might be crazy to pick against the Huskies here, but this South Carolina team has been playing lights out all tournament long. Even when the offense was tested for the first time against TCU on defense, the Gamecocks found a way to go on a late scoring run in the fourth quarter to pull away. 

I also think South Carolina's depth has been wildly impressive this tournament. They have so many weapons on offense, from Joyce Edwards to Ta'Niya Latson, Raven Johnson, Madina Okot and Tessa Johnson. Even getting contributions off the bench from Alicia Tournebize and Agot Makeer have been huge.

While some bracketologists predict South Carolina's lack of Final Four experience might hurt the Gamecocks, I think it could help them. I feel like this team is taking everything one game at a time, and the offense is continuing to find its groove as it moves through this tournament. I think South Carolina's depth and spark offensively can shock UConn and make a surprise trip back to the national championship. 

And what would make it even sweeter is if South Carolina can finally get a third chance at beating Texas to win it all.

Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem and wants help, call 1-800-GAMBLER.