After a 10-point loss to Texas in the second week of the season and with a new quarterback/offensive coordinator tandem that is evolving week-to-week, some might have thought this was not going to be Alabama’s year. Think again, my friend.
Currently ranked 11th, Alabama (5-1; 3-0, first in SEC West) has won four consecutive games, including three on the road, highlighted by last week's 26-20 victory over Texas A&M and former Crimson Tide assistant coach Jimbo Fisher. But is Alabama back in the College Football Playoff picture?
There is no legal Alabama sports betting – at least until next year - but BetAlabama.com wanted to analyze if the Crimson Tide can make their move while still ranked at No. 11 at this point of the season. Utilizing CollegePollArchive.com, we broke down Alabama’s rankings in the season since the dawn of the College Football Playoff. Here are the details over the last 10 seasons and where they ended up:
Alabama Since Beginning of College Football Playoff
Double-Digit Ranking a Concern
Since 2014, only once has the Crimson Tide been ranked lower than 10th at any time during the season and made the CFP. Amazingly, in the first nine years, Alabama was ranked No. 1 at some point of the season. In eight of those years, Alabama either made the playoff, lost in the title game or was crowned national champions. Simply a remarkable and historic run by Nick Saban’s program. Earlier this year, we looked at Saban’s record against the spread.
Alabama hosts Arkansas (2-4) Saturday in a SEC West Division matchup (ESPN, noon). As of Wednesday, the Tide is a 19.5-point and -1100 moneyline favorite over the Razorbacks (+700) at BetMGM Sportsbook. The over/under game total is at 46.5 points. If mobile wagering comes to the state in the next few years, you will want to have a BetMGM Alabama sportsbook promo code ready to go.
On the futures market at BetMGM, Alabama is +1800 to win the national championship and is the second favorite (+200) to win the SEC behind defending two-time national champion Georgia (-140). Roll Tide! Maybe . . .
