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Can Notre Dame keep it close against Alabama in the College Football Playoff Semifinals?
We are now less than a week away from the two NCAA College Football Playoff Semifinals on January 1, 2021, and there is still little movement in the odds for either game.
The first of the two semifinals that day will be remarkable, as the Rose Bowl is played in Texas (instead of California) at the AT&T Stadium due to COVID-19 restrictions.
But that might be the only thing that gives this game something to talk about, especially when you look at the odds.
No. 4 Notre Dame is going to try its best to beat No.1 Alabama, but there are not many people who think the Irish have much of a shot at crashing the CFB Championship contest on the 11th. Some of that has to do with Notre Dame’s past performances in these games, while also some apprehension after bettors watched Clemson dismantle the Irish in the ACC Championship game.
But really, it has to do with the offensive juggernaut that is Alabama. The Crimson Tide come into the contest at number two nationally in scoring offense (49.7), but could leave it on top of Kent State (49.8). Think about that: Alabama is AVERAGING seven touchdowns per game.
The game, which is going to be played at 4 p.m. EST on ESPN and Fubo.tv, is currently predicted to be a blowout. The Crimson Tide are -19.5 point favorites, and the money line odds have Alabama at -1200. That is -1200, in a CFB semifinal. The total is a whopping 65.5, mostly because people think the Crimson Tide are going to turn up the offense: Alabama’s team total is 42.5.
Some of the better bets could be the player props, with Mac Jones under center for Alabama and DeVonta Smith leading the way at wide receiver. The two are finalists for the Heisman Trophy, and could have a huge day against the Irish.
Prediction:
There is no way the Irish win this, but will they cover? No. Take Smith in some props as well.