CFN'S PREDICATION - NATIONAL HINT

Here is that combination of words again, South Carolina, National Championship.

Vanderbilt (3-3) at South Carolina (6-1) 12:30 EST GamePlan
Why to watch: All of a sudden, South Carolina isn't just in the SEC East race, it isn't just in the SEC race, it's knee-deep in the chase for the national championship. Firmly at the No. 6 spot in the first BCS rankings, the Gamecocks probably control their own destiny if they actually want to start dreaming about New Orleans for more than just the Sugar Bowl. It's not an easy road ahead, still needing to deal with road trips to Tennessee and Arkansas, along with home games against Florida and Clemson, but first things first, USC has to make sure it doesn't slip up against a Vanderbilt team on a two-game skid. The Commodores haven't beaten the Gamecocks since 1999, and to stay in the hunt for a bowl bid, it needs to pull off the upset.

Why Vanderbilt might win: South Carolina is pulling it off with smoke and mirrors. One game the defense is nasty, the next it can't stop the run. One game the running game is working, the next it gets stuffed. This isn't a consistent team, and there's no way it can't be getting a little ahead of itself and mentally planning for the big road trips ahead over the next two weeks. The Gamecocks can be run on. If the Vandy ground game can find an early groove, and if the defense can create a few turnovers that turn into points, this will be a much tighter game than many expect.

Why South Carolina might win: This isn't an explosive Commodore team, and it could have major problems if the USC offense can get to a double-digit lead early on. The passing game doesn't generate yards in bunches, despite having an elite talent in Earl Bennett to throw to, and the running game isn't nearly as effective as it should be, considering the mobility at quarterback. It's a simple formula for USC: score early, don't turn the ball over, control the clock, and get out with the win.

Who to watch: Considering it's the middle of the season, the quarterback situations should be solidified, not up in the air. Chris Nickson has had a rough two games for Vandy, completing just seven of 21 passes in losses to Auburn and Georgia, opening the door for Mackenzi Adams, who had a nice outing against the Bulldogs completing seven of ten throws for 124 yards and a touchdown, and running for 46 more. If nothing else, the two might rotate. .Adding to the uncertainty if the Gamecock quarterback situation. Chris Smelley has been fine since taking over four games ago, and is coming off a three touchdown pass performance against North Carolina. But Steve Spurrier being Steve Spurrier has hinted that Blake Mitchell might see time, or even get the start, after a good week of practice.

What will happen: It doesn't matter who's at quarterback; South Carolina will get another strong defensive performance when it needs it the most, and will keep the buzz going with the trip to Tennessee ahead.
CFN Prediction: South Carolina 31 ... Vanderbilt 13 ...

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