Alabama Schedule Predictions
By Scott Rogust
The college football season kicks off this weekend (seriously!), which means all eyes will soon be on the Alabama Crimson Tide, who enter yet another season as CFP National Championship favorites.
However, they have to get through their 12-game regular season schedule first. Here's how we see the five most important games going for the Crimson Tide this season.
5. Sept. 14 at South Carolina: W 49-28
Alabama's third game of the season will be their first against an SEC rival, having faced Duke and New Mexico State in very winnable games. South Carolina is coming off a 7-6 record last season, and was an imperfect 0-4 against ranked teams. Expect the Crimson Tide to march to a victory.
4. Oct. 12 at Texas A&M: W 35-21
Alabama's first game against a ranked opponent comes in early October against the Texas A&M Aggies, who enter the season as dark horses in the SEC. Jimbo Fisher is known for building contenders, and could present Alabama's first challenge of the season. However, the Crimson Tide's roster depth proves to be too much, and they emerge with the road win.
3. Oct. 19 vs. Tennessee: W 56-20
It's a battle between student and mentor, as Nick Saban faces former protégé Jeremy Pruitt. However, Tennessee is still too far away from competing against the top teams in the SEC. The Crimson Tide and Saban have their way with the Vols.
2. Nov. 9 vs. LSU: W 21-17
Perhaps this is the biggest challenge for Alabama this season, the No. 6 ranked LSU Tigers. LSU carries plenty of elite talent, including 5-star safety Grant Delpit. Alabama and LSU matchups always go down to the wire (with last season being the lone exception). LSU will bring the fight, but Alabama emerges with the W.
1. Nov. 30 at Auburn: W 41-24
You didn't seriously think we'd leave out the Iron Bowl, did you? The in-state fight for bragging rights take place in the season finale, as it always does. However, Auburn will be battered and bruised due to a ridiculously tough schedule, and Alabama will take advantage of it, as they set their focus on the College Football Playoff.