Tennessee vs. Alabama Odds: Back the Vols at Home in Knoxville

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Tennessee Backed to Cover Against Alabama in Knoxville

Alabama enters its game at Tennessee as a 7.5-point favorite, a number that appears too high. Some sportsbooks were offering Tennessee at eight points, including more expensive lines with the hook, making the Volunteers an appealing home underdog.

The line may reflect Tennessee’s close game against Arkansas with George McIntyre at quarterback. The Volunteers were 13.5-point road favorites, and McIntyre threw multiple interceptions. Alabama, meanwhile, stayed with Georgia throughout its last game and could have won. A late pass interference decision may have been the difference between a 20-17 Georgia victory and a 24-20 Alabama win.

Despite McIntyre’s performance against Arkansas, he is viewed as an upgrade over Faison Brandon. Tennessee also has a defense that may be better than many realized entering the season. Alabama must now recover from the Georgia game and cover a sizable spread in a difficult road environment.

The matchup also favors Tennessee’s rushing attack. The Volunteers average 228 rushing yards per game, ranking 15th nationally and sixth in success rate. Georgia ran for 206 yards against Alabama while controlling possession for 33.5 minutes. That included a 10-play, 84-yard drive that produced the decisive lead.

If Tennessee keeps the ball on the ground, it has a chance not only to cover but also to win. The Volunteers also have a strong pass rush that can challenge an Alabama offensive line that showed weakness against Georgia.

Alabama’s clearest advantage is against Tennessee’s passing game, which ranks 110th nationally regardless of the quarterback. Keylon Russell could also find opportunities against the Tennessee secondary.

Still, getting 7.5 or eight points with Tennessee at home is attractive. The home team has won the past five meetings, including Tennessee’s upset of Alabama in Knoxville two years ago. The preferred plays are Tennessee against the spread and a smaller wager on the Volunteers’ money line.