Alabama (12-2) at South Carolina (10-4)
- When: Jan 8 2025, 7:00 PM
- Where: Colonial Life Arena, Columbia, SC, USA
- Where to watch: SEC Network
Alabama holds a -9.5 spread advantage, with the total set at 156.0—a figure that hints at a high-scoring showdown in Columbia, S.C., as the Crimson Tide prepare to clash with South Carolina.
Game Preview & Betting Insights
No. 5 Alabama (12-2, 1-0 SEC) is on a mission to extend its dominance after an electrifying 107-79 win over then-No. 12 Oklahoma. The Tide enters this contest riding a six-game winning streak, averaging an NCAA-best 91.1 points per game but giving up 77.4 points—ranking among the lowest defensively at 313th.
Meanwhile, South Carolina (10-4, 0-1 SEC) aims to rebound after a disastrous 85-50 loss to No. 17 Mississippi State. Their seven-game win streak was snapped in brutal fashion as they shot an ice-cold 29.1% from the floor and only drained 2 of 19 from beyond the arc.
Alabama’s Winning Formula
The Tide has covered spreads impressively, winning nine straight matchups against South Carolina. Mark Sears has been pivotal, averaging 18.3 points and 4.4 assists, and posted 22 points with 10 assists against Oklahoma. Alabama’s high-octane offense has posted 100+ points 14 times in the last two seasons—a betting dream for those backing the over.
Despite their scoring prowess, Alabama’s defense remains vulnerable, giving bettors reason to eye South Carolina’s resilience.
South Carolina’s Struggles and Betting X-Factor
Coach Lamont Paris faces a daunting challenge after witnessing his squad’s lackluster fight against Mississippi State. The Gamecocks were out-hustled early, scoring just 10 points in the first 14 minutes. Collin Murray-Boyles, their top scorer at 15.8 points per game, managed just five points in the loss but remains a key player to watch in prop bets—especially on the boards, where he averages 9.4 rebounds.
Zachary Davis emerged with 22 points last game, but bettors should weigh whether that was a one-off performance or a sign of things to come.
Matchup Prediction and Bet Recommendations
With Alabama’s offensive firepower and recent dominance over South Carolina, betting the spread at -9.5 appears favorable. However, given Alabama’s defensive gaps, a second-half surge from the Gamecocks could make live betting intriguing. The total of 156.0 points suggests a track meet, but if South Carolina’s shooting woes continue, the under could hit unexpectedly.
For value plays, look at Sears’ assist totals and Murray-Boyles’ rebound props—especially if the game turns into a grind in the paint. Alabama’s Grant Nelson (8.8 rebounds per game) will also be a factor in controlling the boards.
Final Prediction: Alabama covers at -9.5, with a 92-75 type of finish. Watch for in-game swings if South Carolina shows early resistance.
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
