Vanderbilt (15-3) at Alabama (15-3)
- When: Jan 21 2025, 7:00 PM
- Where: Coleman Coliseum, Tuscaloosa, AL, USA
- Where to watch: SEC Network
The Alabama Crimson Tide are favored by 12 points, with a total set at 168.5, as they prepare to host the Vanderbilt Commodores in a high-stakes SEC clash on Tuesday night in Tuscaloosa. Both teams are coming off impressive wins over top-10 opponents, adding intrigue to this fast-paced showdown.
Game Preview: Crimson Tide Rolling on Offense
Alabama (15-3, 4-1 SEC) is coming off a thrilling 102-97 road victory over then-No. 8 Kentucky, marking their fifth consecutive road win. However, they’ll be eager to bounce back at home after their surprising 74-64 loss to Ole Miss last week snapped an eight-game home winning streak.
Head coach Nate Oats emphasized the importance of preparation and effort following the Ole Miss loss. “We didn’t deserve to win with our preparation. We need to earn every victory moving forward,” Oats said. The Crimson Tide lead the nation in scoring at 90.2 points per game, powered by a deep roster that includes Mark Sears (18.9 PPG), Grant Nelson (12.7 PPG), Labaron Philon (11.6 PPG), and Aden Holloway (10.8 PPG).
South Florida transfer Chris Youngblood, who recently returned from injury, adds another scoring option for Alabama. Youngblood logged significant minutes in recent games, providing a spark off the bench.
Commodores Seek Another Upset
Vanderbilt (15-3, 3-2 SEC) stunned No. 6 Tennessee 76-75 in their last outing, delivering one of the program’s most memorable home wins in recent years. First-year head coach Mark Byington credited his team’s resilience, saying, “We chop wood, carry water, and focus on the next challenge.” That challenge is significant as the Commodores face the nation’s top offensive team on the road.
Vanderbilt’s offense is led by Jason Edwards (17.1 PPG), AJ Hoggard (11.1 PPG), Devin McGlockton (10.7 PPG), and Tyler Nickel (10.1 PPG). Jaylen Carey provided a huge boost off the bench against Tennessee, contributing 14 points and 10 rebounds. The Commodores also thrive on forcing turnovers, ranking eighth nationally in turnover rate (22.9%).
Key Matchups to Watch
Turnover Battle: Alabama struggles with ball security, ranking 136th in turnover rate (16.9%). Vanderbilt’s defense could capitalize, especially after forcing 25 turnovers against South Carolina and 11 against Tennessee.
Size Advantage: Alabama’s trio of 6-foot-11 players—Grant Nelson, Cliff Omoruyi, and Jarin Stevenson—could dominate Vanderbilt’s smaller frontcourt. The Commodores will rely heavily on Devin McGlockton (7.9 RPG) to compete in the paint.
Betting Breakdown
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Spread Pick: Alabama -12
Alabama’s offense is firing on all cylinders, and their size advantage should wear down Vanderbilt’s smaller lineup. Expect the Crimson Tide to cover the spread at home as they look to bounce back from their recent loss in Tuscaloosa. -
Total Pick: Over 168.5
Both teams thrive in fast-paced games, with Alabama ranked No. 1 in adjusted tempo and Vanderbilt also playing an up-tempo style. With the Crimson Tide leading the nation in scoring and Vanderbilt capable of putting up points, the over looks promising. -
Player Prop: Mark Sears Over 21.5 Points
Sears has been a consistent offensive leader for Alabama and should have another big game against a Vanderbilt defense vulnerable to elite scoring threats.
Expert Prediction
Alabama 94, Vanderbilt 78
The Crimson Tide’s offensive firepower and home-court advantage should prove too much for Vanderbilt. Alabama covers the spread comfortably, and the game goes over the total in what promises to be an entertaining SEC matchup.
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
