- Alabama vs. Tennessee tips off Saturday at 8:30 p.m. ET on ESPN.
- Rick Barnes has won four straight against Nate Oats and Alabama.
College football season is officially over, which means online sports betting fans can expect a lot of hoops on the mothership between now and March.
Saturday’s nightcap from SEC country revives a classic conference border war. Rick Barnes’ Tennessee team dropped out of the AP Top 25 this week, but the Vols can score a big win for seeding in their road game at Alabama.
Alabama vs. Tennessee Odds
- Point Spread: Alabama -5.5
- Moneyline: Alabama -220Â |Â Tennessee +180
- Over/Under: 166.5
Alabama vs. Tennessee Betting Preview
Both Alabama and Tennessee have been top-10 teams in recent years, so this game has lost some of its luster.
Nevertheless, this is probably the best SEC game on TV this weekend. Alabama is playing as a short-ranked favorite, but it’s the Vols that have the winning streak in this series. Rick Barnes’ program has won four straight games against Nate Oats’ Crimson Tide, including a two-game sweep in 2024. Alabama’s last win against Tennessee was in December 2021.Â
If there’s a matchup advantage to be exploited here, it’s Tennessee’s methodical half-court approach against Alabama’s run-and-gun. Alabama still plays fast and wields one of the best adjusted offensive efficiency marks in Div. I, but the three-point shooting isn’t quite as nailed down as it has been in previous years.Â
That’s why Alabama looks more like a Sweet 16 team this year than a Final Four contender, as in years past.
As it has in previous matchups, Tennessee will bludgeon Alabama on the boards. The Vols rank No. 1 in college basketball in offensive rebound percentage, creating an extra possession on a whopping 44.2% of possessions.Â
And because of how Alabama pushes for pace and space, it gives up a ton of offensive boards. The Tide ranks 288th in offensive rebound percentage allowed.
That’s a huge strategic advantage that Barnes can continue to exploit against Oats, even if Alabama shoots well from beyond the arc.
Alabama vs. Tennessee Prediction
I am predicting a win and cover for Tennessee.Â
While spread is fine here, the moneyline is the more valuable option at cost. If you’re considering Tennessee basketball odds on Saturday night, consider taking a piece of each.Â
Prediction: Tennessee +5.5; Tennessee +180
It’s never been easier and more exciting to bet on NCAA basketball odds!
- Log in to your BetMGM online sportsbook account. If you don’t have an account, sign up with the sportsbook welcome offer.
- View updated NCAA basketball odds.
- Find odds that fit your basketball betting strategy.
- Add the bet to your Bet Slip.
- Add a stake and place your bet!
Whether you’re a first-time bettor browsing futures, a casual fan building parlays, or a longtime diehard breaking down over/under trends, there’s something for everyone.
And don’t forget to check out updated sportsbook promos for Odds Boosts, sweepstakes, and more!
The content provided in this blog is intended for entertainment purposes only. All views and opinions expressed are the authors and reflect their individual perspectives on sports, betting, and related topics. This content should not be considered professional betting advice or the official views of BetMGM LLC. Please gamble responsibly. If you or someone you know is experiencing issues related to gambling, seek help from a licensed health professional. This blog is not liable for any losses, damages, or consequences resulting from betting activities.
