:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/70103044/1236084145.0.jpg)
For the first time since 2006, the annual matchup between Alabama and LSU won’t be on CBS. ESPN is televising the game, a glimpse into a not-so-distant future that deprives us of SEC on CBS coverage and instead hands it to the Mouse. Anyways, it’s really kinda weird that that’s happening. It’s felt so ingrained lately that deviating away from that, even as these teams trend in different directions, it feels weird. Anyways, ‘Bama is ‘Bama this year and although they may lack a strong resume, they sit at #2. LSU is unranked and is finishing out the year with Ed Orgeron in his final month of the season as head coach.
How to watch Alabama vs. LSU
Time: 7 p.m. ET
TV: ESPN
Watch Online: ESPN App
Betting Odds
(via DraftKings Sportsbook)
Spread: Alabama -28.5 | LSU +28.5
Total: 67
Moneyline: Alabama -4500 | LSU +1800
It’s hard to really find an edge for LSU to hang their hat on in this one. They have been getting bullied lately especially on the ground. In three of their last four games, LSU has given up a YPC of: 5.6, 7.3, and 5.3. ‘Bama 4.1 YPC against Tennessee, but they’ve been otherwise very stout on the ground this year and could give the Tigers fits up front.
Alabama’s had zero trouble throwing the ball either. Bryce Young has thrown for over 300 yards in each of the last three games. This includes performances of 369, 348, and 371. This all while averaging 9.14 YPA in this stretch, a damn good number to say the least. LSU’s only allowed 300 passing yards twice this season though, so if they can hang their hat on anything it’s defending the pass. Bare in mind: Those two performances were against Mississippi State and Florida, who each threw it at least 40 times (State threw it 62 times). But obviously, it’s a different game against Alabama, who’ll have some of the stiffest competition LSU’s faced and will face all season long.
Ballooned point spreads are something I shy away from and I’d probably advise you to do the same. That being said, I think Alabama will win this one comfortably and effortlessly. They are a step ahead of LSU this season and will likely showcase that on Saturday night.