2021 College Football Playoff ‘Rose Bowl’, Alabama vs. Notre Dame: Time, TV channel, watch online, odds

The College Football Playof will begin on New Year’s Day 2021, and once again the Alabama Crimson Tide will participate. 2021 marks the sixth time that the Tide have made it into the event, with last year being their only no-show in this era. The Tide will face a somewhat familiar foe in the Notre Dame Fighting Irish, who are making their second-ever appearance in the Playoff.

Alabama got here by going undefeated from wire to wire. The Tide have flummoxed teams all season long with their high-powered offense. Led by the triple threat of Mac Jones, Najee Harris and DeVonta Smith, the Tide have looked seemingly unstoppable on that side of the ball. No longer is defense the trademark of this team, as with football’s evolution this decade has come the adaptation for Nick Saban’s program. It’s worked in spades, and they are fixing to put up a heavy, heavy fight.

The benefits of Notre Dame’s recruiting, development and play on the field have been reaped lately. Since the infamous 4-8 season, the Fighting Irish have revamped themselves in a big way. They’re making their second appearance in the Palyoff in the last few years, and while their last showing didn’t go so well, they’re hoping for better results this go-around. Yes, the Tide are heavy favorites, but make no mistake about it. The Irish are legit. Although big bowl games have been their kryptonite, Notre Dame is hoping to reverse those fortunes come New Year’s Day.

How to Watch

Time: 4 p.m. ET

TV: ESPN

Watch Online: WatchESPN

Odds

(via FanDuel Sportsbook)

Spread: Alabama -19.5

Total: 66.5

Moneyline: Alabama -1050 | Notre Dame +630