Alabama Looks to Rebound Against South Carolina After Shocking Upset
No. 7 Alabama (4-1, 1-1 SEC) vs. South Carolina (3-2, 1-2 SEC) Bryant-Denny Stadium, Tuscaloosa, AL Kickoff: 12:00 PM EST Line: Alabama -21.5, Over/Under 50.5
The Crimson Tide are reeling after a stunning loss to Vanderbilt last week, their first defeat to the Commodores in 40 years. The upset sent shockwaves through college football, knocking Alabama from the top spot in the rankings down to No. 7. Now, Alabama is looking to bounce back against a South Carolina team also searching for answers after a disappointing performance.
What Went Wrong for Alabama?
The Tide defense, usually a force to be reckoned with, was uncharacteristically porous against Vanderbilt, surrendering 33 points and failing to record a single sack.
South Carolina’s Struggles
The Gamecocks enter this matchup after a humbling 27-3 loss at home to No. 9 Ole Miss. Their offense sputtered, averaging 4.1 yards per play. Quarterback LaNorris Sellers, returning from injury, struggled to find consistency against the Rebels’ defense. Facing an Alabama defense eager to prove themselves after last week’s debacle, Sellers and the Gamecocks have a daunting task ahead.
Key Matchup: Alabama Pass Rush vs. South Carolina Offensive Line
South Carolina ranks near the bottom of the nation in sacks allowed, giving up over four per game. This weakness plays right into the hands of an Alabama defense desperate to regain its swagger. If the Tide can consistently pressure Sellers, it could be a long afternoon for the Gamecocks’ offense.
What to Expect
While Alabama is undoubtedly the more talented team, their recent performances suggest they are not invincible. South Carolina has shown flashes of offensive firepower this season, particularly in their narrow loss to LSU. If the Gamecocks can protect Sellers and establish some semblance of a running game, they might be able to keep this game within reach.
The Pick:
Our model predicts a 33-17 Alabama win. While the Crimson Tide should win, covering a 21.5-point spread seems like a tall order given their recent inconsistencies. South Carolina +21.5 offers the value play in this matchup.
Don’t Miss:
- Can Alabama’s defense rediscover its dominant form?
- Will LaNorris Sellers rise to the occasion against a tough opponent?
- Can South Carolina’s offensive line hold up against the Tide’s pass rush?
This SEC showdown promises plenty of intrigue as both teams look to get back on track.