Alabama vs. LSU point spread: Picking Crimson Tide vs. Tigers

More likely than not, Saturday’s Alabama–LSU game is for the SEC West. Depending on how Ole Miss‘ season plays out, there could be a three-way tie scenario but they travel to Athens to face off against Georgia. As we have seen plenty of times in the past, Tuscaloosa will be the site for the division title.

Alabama heads into the game at -3.5, a low number considering the game is being played at Bryant-Denny Stadium. It’s not your usual game between the two programs, with Alabama having a suspect offense at times and LSU having a suspect defense.

On3’s Andy Staples decided to pick the game alongside Dan Rubenstein, with both of them deciding to take Alabama to cover the spread. Rubenstein presented the case of the Crimson Tide defense being the safe bet, especially playing at home.

“I’m going to roll with defenses in big games,” Rubenstein said during Monday’s episode of Andy Staples On3. “That seems, to me, the easiest way to make money. So, I’m going to go with a good defense at home here… It might be ugly, it’s not going to be a pronounced win.

“But I just don’t think LSU, as strong as they’ve been on offense, is going to go to Tuscaloosa and just drop 39 or something on Alabama.”

“I agree,” Staples said. “Alabama, take the -3.5. Happy to do it. Glad it’s not more.”

Rubenstein also pointed out how there is a blueprint to get after LSU’s offense, led by quarterback potential Heisman Trophy favorite Jayden Daniels. Dating back to the season opener in Orlando, Florida State was able to put on a good performance in the second half. There could be something there for Nick Saban to take advantage of.

And then there is the LSU defense, which has struggled against SEC offense this season. Rubenstein did mention how you never truly know what you will get out of Jalen Milroe. However, with all of the injuries Brian Kelly has at cornerback, both Rubenstein and Staples believe the avenue is open for the Alabama passing game.

At the same time, you just know something unexpected is going to happen. It’s been a common theme of the matchup in recent years, dating back to the famous 2019 victory for LSU in Tuscaloosa. A heroic type performance from Daniels may be required on Saturday night, doing his best Joe Burrow impression around Halloween.