Alabama Crimson Tide @ Penn State Nittany Lions Free Pick

I think this is going to be a bit of a down year for Alabama. I don’t see title hopes in their future despite having one of the most dynamic running backs in the game. The quarterback play was atrocious in Week 1 as Alabama’s defense remained strong. They beat Kent State 48-7, but they had 1 touchdown pass and 4 interceptions – they might be better off if they didn’t pass the ball at all. Alabama lost a lot to graduation and the NFL last season, so this year will be interesting. I wouldn’t buy into the #2 ranking too much, if they end the season that high I will be stunned.

That being said, they are still much better than Penn State. The Nittany Lions did away with Indiana State in Week 1, and they played pretty good football last season, but they always struggle against the top echelon teams – and Alabama, though not quite what they were, are definitely a top echelon football team, even thought they lost 3 games last year and are coming back with a lesser team in 2011.
I expect Alabama to score a few touchdowns, but basically hold Penn State in check. I’m predicting a 24-10 game, and that’s if Alabama doesn’t figure it out offensively. They are just too powerful on the lines on both sides of the ball.

Alabama Crimson Tide (-9.5) @ Penn State Nittany Lions