Iron Bowl Picks: Can Alabama make it five in a row against Auburn?

Tony Reyes
By , Updated on: Nov 28, 2024 12:00 AM
Iron Bowl Picks: Can Alabama make it five in a row against Auburn?
  • What: NCAA Football Regular Season Game
  • When:Ā November 30, 2024
  • Who:Ā  Auburn vs. Alabama
  • Time:Ā  3:30 p.m. ET
  • Where: Bryant-Denny Stadium (Columbus, OH)

The Iron Bowl is upon us, and the stakes couldnā€™t be higher for the Alabama Crimson Tide as they prepare to face off against the Auburn Tigers.

Alabama, currently favored by 11.5 points, is coming off a shocking 24-3 loss to Oklahoma, where they managed to score a mere three points.

This kind of performance is not typical for Alabama, and you can bet theyā€™re itching to prove that was just a fluke.

Meanwhile, Auburn is riding high after a thrilling win against Texas A&M, but letā€™s break down why Alabama is primed to cover that spread and then some.

There will be no shortage ofĀ Online college football betting as the college football season continues, and every game becomes a high-stakes chess match.

Moreover, the Iron Bowl is not just another game; itā€™s a rivalry that brings out the best in both teams.

Alabama leads the all-time series 50-37-1, and theyā€™ll be looking to extend that lead in front of their home crowd. The atmosphere will be electric, and you can expect Alabama to come out firing on all cylinders.

First off, letā€™s talk about the Crimson Tideā€™s talent. Despite their recent struggles, Alabama boasts one of the most talented rosters in college football.

Game Preview (Auburn vs. Alabama)

SpreadBetOnlineBetUSBovada
Auburn +11.5 Points-110-110-110
Alabama -11.5 Points-110-110-110

Quarterback Jalen Milroe has shown flashes of brilliance this season, and heā€™ll be looking to bounce back after a rough outing against Oklahoma.

Milroeā€™s ability to make plays with both his arm and legs is a game-changer, and against an inconsistent Auburn defense, he could very well exploit their weaknesses.

Alabamaā€™s defense has faced its share of challenges on the other side of the ball, especially in the run game.

However, linebackers coach Christian Robinson has emphasized the need for heightened awareness and discipline in their assignments.

Auburn +11.5 Points Auburn vs. Alabama
Bovada
-110

With the experience of facing Auburnā€™s running backs like Jarquez Hunter, who leads the SEC in yards per carry, Alabamaā€™s defense will be ready to step up.

Robinsonā€™s familiarity with the Tigersā€™ backfield will be crucial in preparing his players to contain their ground game.

Auburnā€™s offense, while capable, has not been the model of consistency this season.

Quarterback Payton Thorne has struggled at times, and if Alabama can apply pressure and force him into mistakes, it could lead to a significant advantage.

The Crimson Tideā€™s defensive line is loaded with talent, and theyā€™ll be looking to make a statement after last weekā€™s performance.

Letā€™s not forget about the analytics. According to the Football Power Index, Alabama has a projected scoring margin of 17.4 points better than Auburn.

The model simulates the game 20,000 times, and Alabama comes out on top in 87.7% of those simulations. Thatā€™s a strong indicator that the Crimson Tide are not just favored to win, but to win decisively.

I would lay the 11.5 points and back Alabama in this one.

Alabama -11.5 Points Auburn vs. Alabama
BetUS
-110

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Total Points (Tigers vs. Crimson Tide)

While Auburn may feel good after their recent victory, Alabama is a different beast altogether. Expect a dominant performance from Alabama as they look to get back on track and make a statement in the Iron Bowl.

Total PointsBetOnlineBetUSBovada
Over 53-110-110-105
Under 53-110-110-115

This yearā€™s Iron Bowl features two strong defensive teams.

The Tigers and the Crimson Tide rank in the top 30 nationally for scoring defense and total defense, allowing under 21 points and 325 yards per game this season.

As the season has progressed, both teams have maintained their defensive prowess, ranking in the top 10 for defensive PPA outside of garbage time since Week 8 while permitting fewer than 3.2 points per scoring opportunity.

Their defensive efficiency is also evident in the red zone, with both teams in the top 25 for opposing red zone scoring rate (including field goals).

However, the same success cannot be noted on the offensive side, as both Auburn and Alabama sit outside the top 65 in red zone scoring, with the Tigers even in the bottom 100.

I believe this game will be driven by the defenses. Neither team plays at a high tempo, and both offenses rank outside the top 75 in explosiveness per play outside of garbage time since mid-October.

Given the strong defensive track record, I suggest considering the Under for the Iron Bowl. Under 53 Points is the play in this one.

Under 53 Auburn vs. Alabama
Bovada
-115

Check ourĀ top sportsbook reviewsĀ for the best odds on your favorite NCAA Football games before placing your bets.

Meet the author

Tony Reyes

With years of experience as an analyst, Tony brings an expert voice to picks and predictions. His passion for sports betting is evident in his coverage, which not only informs and entertains but also shares his love for the game. When he's not watching or covering t...

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