Alabama Clemson Betting Odds & College Football Picks


August 27, 2008 | Posted By Larry Cook

Clemson has been loaded with talent during Tommy Bowden’s nine years on the sidelines, but they have struggled to perform up to expectations. This year the expectations are higher than ever, so if Bowden’s squad can’t produce then the fan base may be more demoralized than ever. The Tigers will get a chance to see what they are made of right away though as Alabama is the first test of the season on Saturday.  Clemson comes into this game as a 4.5 point favorite on the betting odds.  Last year’s squad collapsed late to miss out on playing the ACC Championship game, a goal that Bowden’s bunch has in mind for 2008.

Many think that this is the year for Clemson to shine as they have seven returning starters on offense, including a top pair in the backfield in James Davis and CJ Spiller.  Those two were expected to be among the best duos in the nation last year after spectacular 2006 seasons, but both saw their production drop off.  They will need to get back to form if Clemson is going to win the ACC and compete for a national title, and they should with four starters returning on the offensive line.  The quarterback position is in good hands as well with Cullen Harper under center.  Harper set 22 school records in his first season as a starter, and had 27 touchdown passes to only six interceptions.

Defensively Clemson will be among the best in the nation as well, even with losing it’s top four linebackers.  Top recruit Da’Quan Bowers will help with the pass rush at defensive end.  With a tough SEC opponent right away in Alabama, the Tigers will be able to find out just where they stand on defense.  If you like the Clemson betting odds at -4.5 then bet the game at BetUS.

Alabama might not have impressed anyone with their 7-6 record from a year ago, but how different things could have been if the ball had bounced their way, all six of their losses were by a touchdown or less.  This year should be even better since they added the nation’s best recruiting class to the mix.

No position benefited more than wide receiver with Julio Jones and BJ Scott joining the ranks and helping to replace the loss of the top three starters.  John Parker Wilson is happy to have them on board to help him get his numbers back up after a down junior season.  Running back looks to be in good hands as well with Terry Grant running for 930 yards as a freshman and junior Glen Coffee being in the running as well.

Defensively the Tide only have five faces back, but one of the is All-SEC safety Rashad Johnson, whose leadership should help bring the others along quickly.  Alabama is getting a +4.5 point spread here, so if you like the dog then bet this football game at BetUS.

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