The Gamecocks were champion of the Atlantic Coast Conference for the first time ever, making their first bowl appearance since 1946.
Eddie Williams ran for 208 yards on 35 carries as West Virginia prevailed with a newly installed wishbone offense in a rain soaked game.
Bill Dupree's field goal proved to be the only points the Gamecocks scored all day.
One key play occurred as South Carolina attempted to take the lead with the ball at the Mountaineer 7.
They were stuffed and held to no points as the Mountaineers scored with :23 remaining on a Jim Braxton touchdown plunge to seal the win.