Prime-Time First TD Bets — Sunday Night Football, Week 16
Alex Christenson
Week 2 of the college football season brought some stunning results across the country despite what seemed like a weaker slate of games. This week features a pair of blue-blood programs coming off blowout wins. But make no mistake, Alabama and Florida are in two very different places.
Alabama appears to have reloaded after losing most of their offense to the NFL. Their defense has improved with experience and time together. But they’re about to be tested to a different level as conference play begins.
Florida has all the playmaking and speed they need to stay in this game. However, there’s a lack of clarity at the quarterback position. Can they overcome a question mark at QB against Alabama?
We have you covered from every angle of this matchup. Let’s dig in.
Alabama Crimson Tide vs. Florida Gators Week 3 odds
Here is a look at the Week 3 betting odds between Alabama and Florida odds, courtesy DraftKings Sportsbook.
- Alabama -15 (+100)
- Over/Under: 57 (-110)
- Moneyline: Alabama -720, Florida +500
Alabama at Florida game preview
Here’s a look at the preview between Alabama and Florida for Week 3.
Florida offense vs. Alabama defense
The Gators possess the nation’s top rushing offense thanks to a deep backfield of playmakers. Malik Davis and Emory Jones are averaging over seven yards per carry together, and Anthony Richardson and Dameon Pierce have tacked on another five scores and over 350 yards. Alabama will have their hands full with this aspect of Florida’s offense.
The tough part of Florida’s pathway to winning is how they can build an efficient passing game. Neither Jones nor Richardson even looks competent. And while Oregon overcame this issue against Ohio State with their bully ball, Alabama has only lost to a similar recipe a handful of times in the last decade.
Either Jones or Richardson would need to completely transcend anything we’ve seen from them in the pocket for the Gators’ offense to sustain drives and score in the red zone. It’s impossible to be confident in their ability. Alabama will load the box to slow the run and has enough secondary talent to withstand Dan Mullen’s passing scheme with mediocre throwers.
Alabama offense vs. Florida defense
Bryce Young and this Alabama offense is really darn good. They possess an explosive passing game that threatens defenses to all three levels. Florida will make them earn it even more with their speed and overall star power.
Miami lacked the discipline and individual talent to withstand Alabama’s depth. This Crimson Tide team lacks a star rusher right now, making them more vulnerable than usual. This issue simply hasn’t shown itself yet, but Week 3 could be the time.
The issue is Florida’s secondary has hemorrhaged passing yards against mediocre foes. They’re 81st despite their talent, making them a frustrating and confusing unit to project. Everything is there for them to step up on the big stage, but Young and company can obliterate the holes in the defense if there’s moments of weakness.
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Betting trends for Alabama at Florida
Alabama has won 10 straight games and covered in nine of their last 12 overall. The under has hit in four of their last six games. The Crimson Tide have beaten Florida seven straight battles.
Florida has failed to cover in five of their last six games. The over has hit in each of their last five games against Alabama.
CFB betting picks – Alabama at Florida
Alabama will win big once again. While dual threats can give Alabama some trouble, neither Florida quarterback is especially threatening from the pocket. As usual, the Tide will pull away in the fourth quarter for a cover.
Best bets: Alabama -15 (+100)
