There are two major SEC showdowns this weekend with major playoff implications. The first is Alabama vs Tennessee in “The Third Saturday in October” – one of college football’s best rivalry games.

Both programs will arrive at Neyland Stadium on Saturday sitting at 5-1 with aspirations of scoring a major victory and further building their resume for a potential playoff bid to make the 12-team field this December.

While kickoff is still days away, it’s important to get an early look at the odds on games like these to see if you can capitalize on any great lines early in the week.

Alabama vs Tennessee predictions and best bets

• Alabama -2.5: -110 at bet365 Sportsbook
• Over 55.5: -110 at FanDuel Sportsbook

The SEC has provided some great games lately, but in a game between two teams who have had their faults lately, I like Alabama to to come out on top on Saturday.

Both offenses are extremely impressive, but Jalen Milroe has been one of the most talented players in the nation. He should be the driving force behind a Crimson Tide victory on the road.

While both defenses are talented, the over seems like a safe bet. Alabama has gone over in five of six games this season. Tennessee hasn’t had the same rate, but Kalen DeBoer’s offense tends to dictate the pace of the game, and the Volunteers have the firepower to match Alabama score-for-score.

Alabama vs. Tennessee moneyline odds analysis

Why Alabama could win as the favorite

Best odds: -128 at FanDuel Sportsbook

Just three weekends ago, Alabama was on top of the college football world having beaten Georgia and looking like one of the clear top contenders in the country.

Now, after an upset loss to Vanderbilt and a close call against South Carolina, many observers have questions about Alabama.

Jalen Milroe remains one of the top players in the country with a strong case to win the Heisman Trophy (+1500 on FanDuel sportsbook). However, Alabama has battled inconsistencies on both sides of the football, leading to disappointing performances lately.

Kalen DeBoer has proven himself as a capable coach for the program. However, the Crimson Tide need to play a more complete game of football rather than trying to rally like they did against Vanderbilt and South Carolina.

Tennessee hasn’t faced a passing attack the caliber of Alabama’s. If Milroe is able to play a clean game of football (as he had each game prior to last week) then Alabama is in a strong position to control the game.

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Why Tennessee could win as the underdog

Best odds: +115 at BetMGM

Tennessee will need its front seven to assert dominance over the Alabama offensive line. James Pearce Jr., one of the top pass rushers in the country, has caught fire recently with a sack in each of the past two games.

On offense, Dylan Sampson is the focal point. The running back has 15 rushing touchdowns in six games, and has rush for 90+ yards every game this season. Expect Sampson to get a heavy workload this weekend as the Volunteers look to pull off the upset.

The key for Tennessee will be the play of their young QB Nico Iamaleava. The second-year star has to make effective throws to keep the offense balanced.

The Vols are at home, which bodes well for a small-spread underdog, but it won’t be easy for Josh Heupel and company.