This weekend, the Alabama Crimson Tide will face off against the Vanderbilt Commodores in a much-anticipated Week 6 college football showdown. After last year’s surprising loss to Vanderbilt, Alabama’s got a score to settle.
The game kicks off at 2:30 p.m. CT on Saturday, October 4, and it’ll be broadcast on ABC. Alabama is the favorite, and the stakes feel higher than ever—fans are buzzing to see if the Tide can flip the script.
Alabama vs. Vanderbilt: A Look Back
In 2024, Alabama went in as a heavy favorite, with most sportsbooks expecting them to win by more than three touchdowns. But the game ended with a shocking 45-40 loss for Alabama, their first of three SEC road defeats that season.
That loss stung. It was a wake-up call, and you can sense Alabama’s determination to take control again.
2025 Game Overview
Now, looking at the 2025 matchup, Alabama’s favored once more. According to Tuscaloosa News, BetMGM has the odds at:
- Moneyline: Alabama -430
- Spread: Alabama -10.5
- Over/Under: 55.5 points
Key Players to Watch
For Alabama, quarterback Ty Simpson is definitely one to keep an eye on. The team’s had some issues running the ball, but Simpson’s managed to lead the offense pretty well when he’s got decent protection.
Vanderbilt’s quarterback, Diego Pavia, has been a real difference-maker for their offense. This head-to-head at quarterback could be huge.
Alabama’s Offensive Strategy
When Alabama’s offense is clicking, they’re methodical—almost surgical. Their main goal will be to control possession and keep Vanderbilt’s offense off the field.
If the Tide can keep Vanderbilt’s run game in check, they’ll be in a great spot to come out on top.
Vanderbilt’s Game Plan
Vanderbilt, with Diego Pavia leading the way, has made big strides on offense this year. Their best bet? Go after Alabama’s run defense, which hasn’t exactly been bulletproof.
If they can get their ground game going, things could get interesting fast.
Predictions and Expectations
Experts are calling for a close one, but Alabama has a slight edge. Colin Gay from Tuscaloosa News predicts a 35-24 win for Alabama, stressing how important it is to slow down Vanderbilt’s run game.
Chase Goodbread also expects Alabama to win, 31-23, and points out that keeping Ty Simpson upright is going to matter a lot.
Betting Tips
If you’re thinking about betting, those odds and predictions are worth a look. Alabama’s the favorite, so picking them straight up seems pretty safe.
But with how close this could be, maybe the spread or the over/under is where the real action’s at.
This Alabama vs. Vanderbilt matchup? It’s shaping up to be a real nail-biter. Both teams have a lot on the line here.
Alabama’s itching to bounce back after last year’s shocking loss. Vanderbilt, on the other hand, wants to show everyone that win wasn’t just luck.
Ty Simpson and Diego Pavia will be the ones to watch. They’re both ready to put on a show, no doubt.
Kickoff’s at 2:30 p.m. CT on ABC. Might as well clear your schedule.
If you want more takes and predictions, the full article’s up at Tuscaloosa News.
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