This is honestly one of the toughest games to bet. Beyond the hype surrounding it, both Tennessee football and the Alabama Crimson Tide have questionable injuries at key positions and likely absences for other reasons elsewhere. Obviously, Alabama quarterback Bryce Young’s health is the big story there.
However, the Vols still have their go-to receiver, Cedric Tillman, injured, and their starting safety, Jaylen McCollough, is facing a legal issue. Meanwhile top cornerback Warren Burrell is out for the year. Taking all of this into account, where do we go with our bets?
Well, Alabama being healthier and motivated given all the attention on Tennessee football this week is enough for us to take Alabama on the spread, whether it’s from seven to nine, and for them to run more so the game hits the under. In addition to the Tide covering, here are the five best prop bets for the game.
5. Jahmyr Gibbs scores two touchdowns (+155 FanDuel)
Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change
Honestly, this is the only way to get a proper payout. The moneyline has moved to -440 for Alabama running back Jahmyr Gibbs to score two touchdowns. Although the Vols’ run defense isn’t as bad as Texas A&M’s run defense, Alabama is still going to stay committed to the run game more often than they usually do.
That’s with or without Young since Young would still be playing hurt. As a result, they will rely on Gibbs, their best skill player. Gibbs also has over 200 yards receiving, so even if they do turn to the pass, he could be a factor, and without McCollough, UT could really struggle defending running backs in the passing game.
Taking all of this into account, go with the bigger payout. Gibbs is going to score two touchdowns and may even supplant Tennessee football quarterback Hendon Hooker as the biggest star in this game. He’s that elite of a player, and Nick Saban needs him now more than ever.