When you look strictly at the stats, it appears to be a no brainer. In every statistic #2 Alabama out performs the 3-3 Tennessee Volunteers. Still-like in all situations-the reality exist just beneath the surface. Tides, by definition are predictable, and you can be sure that Alabama will give the typical top performance at home.
Mark Ingram have thrown his hat in for consideration in the coveted Heisman trophy race. So 900 plus yards so far and averaging 6.7 yards per carry , his ballot has to be recognized. His mission whether intentional or by sheer determination, is only re-enforced by the likes of coach Nick Saban. The tide plans on continuing to rise.
Another factor that can not be ignored is the Alabama defense. Alabama leads the SEC in sacs and 10 interceptions. Interceptions is just what may have been the difference for Tennessee in their lost against #1 Florida in their September 19 lost. You can rest for sure that Tennessee will make the necessary adjustments to counter the well oiled defense of Alabama.
That is the advantage Tennessee has. They know what they will face. Alabama is predictably consistent and good. First year coach Lane Kiffin will pull out all the stops to try to win this one. This game is not expected for him to win. He has everything to gain and nothing to lose. He will have his team ready to fight the tide.
Quarterback Jonathon Crompton and running back Montario Hardesty as a combination can be a yard making machine. Also there is another factor of Alabama having 3 defensive injuries.
Their are a lot of danger signs here but at 3:30 ET today I am sure that the tide will continue to rise. Vegas has Alabama winning by 14 points. I honestly can not see that occurring. I am expecting a good game and for the Volunteers, lets just hope that there wasn’t a full moon in the last couple of days. That tends to be favorable conditions for tides.
Carl Henegan is CEO of International Gaming Brokers. You can find Carl Henegan at www.BetonMySportsteam.com