Editor’s note: The odds below are courtesy of Heavy’s partners at OddsShark. Click here for more college football odds and betting info at OddsShark.com.
After months of jockeying for position, two teams remain in college football: Alabama and Clemson. Both teams are coming off big victories in the College Football Playoff semifinal games.
The Crimson Tide enter the contest at 13-1 while the Tigers are a perfect 14-0.
According to OddsShark, despite being ranked behind Clemson, Alabama is favored by 6.5 points. The over-under is set at 50.5 points.
Clemson is 7-7 against the spread this season while Alabama is 8-6. For the second straight matchup, Clemson enters a game in the College Football Playoff as an underdog despite being undefeated.
Oklahoma was favored in the semifinal matchup, but Clemson won by 20 points.
Vegas likes the Alabama defense with the best front seven in college football. They also have the advantage of Nick Saban’s championship experience.
The Tigers are the type of team that has potential to cause Alabama problems. Quarterback DeShaun Watson has the ability to extend plays and move around in the pocket.
When Alabama has been vulnerable in past games, it has been against quarterbacks that can use their legs to make plays. How Alabama’s defense is able to handle Watson’s playmaking ability will be a big determining factor in the outcome of the game.
For Alabama, quarterback Jake Coker is coming off his best game of the season against Michigan State. If he can put together a similar performance against Clemson, Alabama will be difficult to stop.
Heavy likes Clemson to pull off the upset. DeShaun Watson and running back Wayne Gallman will be able to attack the Alabama defense, something that has only been done by Ole Miss this season. Look for a close contest in the final minutes and Clemson to surprise Vegas once again.
Heavy’s Pick: Clemson 24 Alabama 20. Clemson +6.5. Under on the point total.