in NCAA F Betting Trends

It’s fitting that these two teams meet in the Kansas Jayhawks to task. But both squads proved to be erratic in the win/loss column and an even bigger headache for their betting investors. Can Saban’s boys end the year on a positive note, or will they exit stage left to a chorus of boos?

Alabama Offense vs. Colorado Defense

The Alabama offense compiles a strong 26.8 points per game average and face a Colorado defense that gives up 29.4 points per game. But quarterback John Parker Wilson was consistently erratic down the stretch, ending the season with 15 touchdowns and 11 picks. The Alabama offense averages 221.9 pass yards per game, and will face a vulnerable secondary that allows 261.8 passing yards against. But it’s difficult to place any betting faith in Wilson’s hands he led the Tide to four straight losses to cap off the regular season.

Running-back Terry Grant will be called upon to take the load off of Wilson, but he lacks the size and durability to withstand four full quarters of punishment. Grant will have to contend with the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year in linebacker Jordan Dizon who can plug the gaps well and never misses a tackle.

Colorado Offense vs. Alabama Defense

Running-back Hugh Charles is the main offensive threat for the Buffaloes. He has averaged a sturdy 5.3 yards per carry while notching 8 touchdowns. Colorado, meanwhile, averages 152.2 rush yards per game and will butt heads with a defense that clamps rushers to only 3.5 yards per carry. Colorado would be smart to keep pressing Charles, who has had a nasty habit of emerging as a force in big games.

The Buffaloes will have some matchup problems in the passing game. Defensive-end Wallace Gilberry is a vicious sack monger who will be after quarterback Cody Hawkins all night long. Hawkins will have to release the ball quickly to his receivers who will have a tough go against this talented secondary. Colorado averages 226.4 yards through the air, while the Tide only allow 212.9 pass yards per game.

 Trends

-Colorado is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games

-Colorado is 8-17 in its last 25 games

-Alabama is 1-8-1 ATS in its last 10 games

Final Verdict

Alabama gets a slim nod from the oddsmakers because of the supposed home field advantage and the fact that they are the more talented football team. But Colorado has always stepped up when playing the bigger name programs. There has been no reason to back the Tide this year against any spread, as they have gone 2-8-1 ATS on the year. With that being said, the Buffaloes betting investor can remain content in watching Saban’s team suffer another, typical meltdown.

Colorado Buffaloes (6-6)

Sunday, December 30th --- Independence Bowl, Shreveport, LA --- 8:00pm EST

: Alabama -3.5 (51)

NCAA Football Free Pick: Colorado 31 Alabama 23

Futures in our sportsbook today in the Future / props section!