Top-ranked Alabama commences the defense of their national championship against No. 14 Miami-Fl. in a key afternoon affair in a day absolutely loaded with top-notch contests. After s few good early matchups, we move to afternoon action no matter where you live in the U.S. on this Labor Day weekend with a fascinating encounter.
Alabama is well-known for reloading, not rebuilding their football program, nevertheless, the offensive losses were substantial from last year’s prolific group that averaged 48.5 points a game. Miami was 8-1 before a regular-season ending beatdown by North Carolina (62-26), which was followed by a bowl game loss to Oklahoma State by three points.
Manny Diaz believes the Hurricanes program is headed in the right direction and this is a monster test to see where they are in 2021. GTbets (visit our GTbets Review) and most top sportsbooks have the Crimson Tide as 18.5-point neutral field favorites. The NCAAF odds seem large given the Tide’s losses on offense, but we’ll explain it’s not as far fetched as it sounds.
Saturday, September 4, 3:30 PM EDT at Mercedes-Benz Stadium
For most college football programs, winning one national championship is a crowning moment. In Tuscaloosa, they wonder why it’s been since 2011-12 since their team won back to back. Nick Saban has created a monster and relishes the challenge. The offense is in the capable hands of sophomore Bryce Young, who already has a NIL deal and is making money.
Despite the losses on offense, Young can look to throw to John Metchie III, the next breakout receiver star for Bama. The offense line might need a game or two to come together, but they always do along with the latest running back(s) that will be a high NFL draft pick. Last year’s focus was the Tide’s offense, this year the defense will steal the early headlines.
Saban’s linebackers are the best group in the country and they might be the best of any position in the sport by the season’s end. The secondary continues to add talent and safety Jordan Battle heads a top-flight group. The defensive line has not had dominant individuals in a few seasons, however, collectively, three candidates could make a name for themselves as pass rushers.
QB D’Eriq King has worked his tail off to return from a serious knee injury, with many not sure if he would play at all this season. King’s an electric two-way performer and he is the key to Miami having any shot for the upset. The offensive will have to keep the chains moving to control the ball.
The way to play with Alabama is to grind out first downs and hit big plays as their defense the last few seasons gets frustrated and will take chances to make a play, which can lead to points. Diaz revamped his defensive coaching staff and is back calling the defense.
Expect the Hurricanes to be more aggressive, yet, at the same time not go overboard. Against Bama, the Canes have to win first and second down regularly to force 3rd and 5 or longer. Saban’s teams are known for protecting the ball, nonetheless, Miami has to generate turnovers they can turn into points to stay in the game.
For college football picks, Miami can hang in for a half on emotion against Alabama. At half time, Saban will make adjustments and his team will pick up the tempo on both sides of the ball and the Hurricanes will not be able to adjust. The defense will keep King in the pocket and the pass rush will take him out of rhythm as a passer.
That will lead to a couple of three and outs for Miami and give Bama field position that will lead to points. Alabama has never lost an opener under Saban and the average margin of victory is double digits. In Saban’s last nine season-openers, all against Power 5 teams, they’ve won at 27.5 PPG.
NCAAF Picks: Alabama -18.5 (-109) with GTtbets (visit our GTbets Review)
*The line and/or odds on picks in this article might have moved since the content was commissioned. For updated line movements, visit BMR’s free betting odds product.