The preseason chatter is finally behind us. After months of speculation, roster moves, and preseason rankings, real football is back. One of the most intriguing opening-weekend matchups is set for Sunday, August 31, when No. 13 South Carolina takes on Virginia Tech in the Aflac Kickoff Game. Played at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, this neutral-site clash will be televised nationally on ESPN at 3 p.m., giving both programs a prime-time opportunity to make an early-season statement.
Series History
This will be the first meeting between the two programs since 1991, when South Carolina edged out Virginia Tech 28-21. The Gamecocks hold an 11-7-2 advantage all-time in the series and come into this matchup riding a two-game winning streak over the Hokies. While the programs don’t cross paths often, the added storyline of Gamecocks head coach Shane Beamer’s history at Virginia Tech makes this an even juicier contest.
Betting Odds
According to FanDuel, South Carolina enters as the favorite with -300 moneyline odds and a 7.5-point spread. The over/under is set at 50.5 points, suggesting oddsmakers are expecting a moderately high-scoring affair.
About South Carolina
The Gamecocks are entering their fifth season under head coach Shane Beamer, who has steadily elevated the program. Beamer, once a player and assistant coach at Virginia Tech, was named SEC Coach of the Year in 2024 after guiding USC to a 9-4 overall record (5-3 SEC). That finish included a top-15 preseason ranking in the 2025 AP Poll, the Gamecocks’ highest since 2014.
Beamer’s squad is loaded with talent and expectations. They were projected to finish fifth in the SEC, but fans and analysts alike believe this team could exceed those projections if their quarterback continues to grow into his role.
Key Players to Watch for South Carolina
LaNorris Sellers, QB – Sellers is the focal point of this year’s team. After throwing for 2,534 yards and 18 touchdowns while adding 674 rushing yards and seven scores in 2024, he’s already on the radar for major awards such as the Manning Award and Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award. His ability to balance efficiency with explosiveness will dictate South Carolina’s ceiling in 2025.
Dylan Stewart, Edge Rusher A breakout freshman in 2024, Stewart posted 6.5 sacks and three forced fumbles. With SEC Defensive Player of the Year Kyle Kennard gone, Stewart becomes the face of the pass rush. His ability to disrupt Virginia Tech’s backfield will be crucial.
About Virginia Tech
On the other sideline, Virginia Tech enters its fourth year under head coach Brent Pry, still in the process of rebuilding the program. The Hokies finished last season at 6-7 (4-4 ACC) and stumbled late, losing four of their final five games, including a 24-10 setback to Minnesota in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl.
They were not ranked in the preseason AP Poll and are predicted to finish 11th in the ACC, but opening against a ranked SEC team gives them a golden chance to flip the script early.
Key Players to Watch for Virginia Tech
Kyron Drones, QB – The Baylor transfer struggled with consistency in 2024, finishing with 1,562 passing yards, 10 touchdowns, and six interceptions. If he can return to his 2023 form and provide stability under center, the Hokies’ offense could surprise.
Ben Bell, Edge Rusher – After productive seasons at Louisiana Tech and Texas State, Bell brings experience and pass-rushing pedigree. Though he sat out most of 2024, he posted 10 sacks the year prior. Virginia Tech hopes he can replicate that success against tougher Power Four competition.
Why This Game Matters
For South Carolina, this opener is about validating preseason hype. With a difficult SEC slate looming featuring road trips to LSU, Ole Miss, and Texas A&M plus home games against Oklahoma and Alabama the Gamecocks need this win to build momentum.
For Virginia Tech, this game is a litmus test for Pry’s progress. Pulling off the upset would not only boost morale but could set the tone for a program eager to climb back into national relevance.
South Carolina’s 2025 Schedule (Highlights)
Aug. 31 vs. Virginia Tech (Atlanta) – ESPN
Oct. 11 at No. 9 LSU
Oct. 18 vs. No. 18 Oklahoma
Oct. 25 vs. No. 8 Alabama
Nov. 29 vs. No. 4 Clemson (Noon, ABC/ESPN)
Final Word
The Aflac Kickoff Game offers two programs at different stages of their journey. South Carolina enters with SEC title aspirations and a quarterback who could become a national star, while Virginia Tech is searching for stability and a breakthrough moment under Brent Pry.
Whether it’s Sellers’ dual-threat brilliance or Bell’s debut as a Hokie, there’s no shortage of storylines. When the Gamecocks and Hokies clash in Atlanta, fans should expect a physical, entertaining battle that sets the tone for both seasons.