The SEC has been dominated this year by the Kentucky Wildcats, who hold a spotless conference record. However you may have missed South Carolina's steady rise in the conference. Frank Martin's team is a legitimate conference title contender and at a perfect 5-0 in SEC play, this game will determine who temporarily stands at the top of the league.

Here's how you can watch the game on TV or streaming online, along with some important matchups to watch and a pick for the game.

Viewing information

When: Saturday, 6 p.m. ET

Where: Rupp Arena, Lexington, Kentucky

TV: ESPN

Live stream: Watch ESPN

Scouting report

South Carolina's calling card all season has been its defensive prowess. The Gamecocks allow just 84.6 points per game, a mark that ranks first in the country. This team is incredibly long and athletic, but most importantly disciplined. Frank Martin has his guys in position to succeed and they've answered the bell to become one of the fiercest defenses in the country.

For Kentucky, point guard De'Aaron Fox has emerged as more than just a distributor. Fox has kept pace with sharpshooting Malik Monk, scoring the same amount of points as him over the last three games. He's looking for his own shot, he's been more aggressive in transition and driving the ball, and it's been working for him. Look for Fox to continue to push the tempo and run the floor to find Kentucky opportunities. That's where Kentucky is dangerous.

Matchups to watch

This game pits the most efficient defense in South Carolina against the second-most efficient offense in UK. I'll be looking for the matchup at the point guard position in this one to play a big factor. De'Aaron Fox is a potential lottery pick, but Sindarius Thornwell is a big-bodied 6-foot-5 guard who matches up well with Fox and has the ability to put the clamps down on defense. I'll be looking for South Carolina to come out swinging early. On the road in an environment like Rupp, Thornwell will likely be in attack mode to try and get early momentum swinging the Gamecocks' way.

Odds and pick

SportsLine odds: Kentucky -13

SportsLine projection: Kentucky 83, South Carolina 69

Pick: South Carolina +13

South Carolina has yet to lose a game this season with Sindarius Thornwell in the lineup. He and P.J. Dozier provide Frank Martin with enough firepower to keep this one tight to the end. Even at Rupp Arena, I think South Carolina covers the spread and keeps things interesting.