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Friday’s college football slate kicks off with Kentucky vs. Clemson from EverBank Stadium in the Gator Bowl.

Kentucky vs. Clemson Gator Bowl odds preview

The Wildcats started the year hot with a five-game winning streak before things soured. Kentucky was victorious in just two of its final seven games, losing each matchup with top-tier SEC opponents.

Kentucky did close the regular season on a high note, taking down No. 10 Louisville thanks to a three-touchdown performance from Devin Leary. Leary, Ray Davis, and Andru Phillips are joining the NFL Draft but will partake in the Gator Bowl, leaving Kentucky with few impactful opt-outs.

Clemson’s season had an opposite trajectory, with the Tigers getting off to a slow start before rattling off four-straight wins to end the year. However, due to opt-outs, Dabo Swinney’s squad will be thin in some position groups.

The most notable player sitting out is Jeremiah Trotter, who will be one of the top LBs in the 2024 NFL Draft. Trotter had 88 tackles, 15 tackles for loss, 5.5 sacks, and two forced fumbles.

Kentucky vs. Clemson best bets: Over 44.5 (-110 or better)

With Trotter out, Kentucky should have an easier time moving the ball against Clemson’s defense. The Tigers are also in a troubling position at cornerback, as opt-outs and injuries have left the coaching staff grasping for straws. Swinney had a running back and wide receiver practicing at cornerback in case injuries strike in the Gator Bowl.

Clemson’s offense started to click as the season went on, and the Tigers scored 30+ points in three of its final four games.

Kentucky vs. Clemson best bets: Devin Leary over 1.5 passing touchdowns (+160 or better)

Leary had an up-and-down 2023 campaign, but with over a month to prepare for the Gator Bowl, he should be at his best in his last college game. The NC State transfer threw multiple touchdowns in five of Kentucky’s past seven games.

Considering Clemson’s glaring weakness at cornerback, expect the Wildcats to attack the secondary early and often.

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