South Florida vs Alabama Picks and Prediction – 9/7/2024

The South Florida Bulls (1-0) will clash with the Alabama Crimson Tide (1-0) in a much-anticipated matchup this Saturday. Both teams are coming off resounding victories in the season openers. South Florida dominated Bethune-Cookman with a 48-3 win, while Alabama crushed Western Kentucky 63-0. This game will test South Florida’s mettle as they step into one of the most challenging environments in college football, Bryant-Denny Stadium. Dominate the college scene with our College Football picks.

South Florida began the season on a high note, with the defense leading the charge. The Bulls limited Bethune-Cookman to just three points, showcasing a defense that could disrupt less formidable offenses. Byrum Brown managed the game well, throwing for 152 yards, while Kelley Joiner contributed significantly on the ground with 78 rushing yards and two touchdowns. Abdur-Rahmaan Yaseen led the receiving corps with 73 yards on five receptions. 

However, this success came against a lower-tier opponent, and the Bulls will need to elevate play to compete with the Crimson Tide. The offensive line must protect Brown against Alabama’s relentless pass rush, and the defense will need to be near-perfect to contain Alabama’s explosive playmakers.

Alabama, ranked 5th nationally, showcased why they are perennial contenders for the national championship with the season-opening blowout. Jalen Milroe was highly efficient, completing 7 of 9 passes for 200 yards and three touchdowns, while Justice Haynes shredded the Western Kentucky defense with 102 rushing yards and a touchdown on just four carries. Ryan Williams was a standout, turning two catches into 139 yards and two touchdowns, demonstrating the Tide’s big-play ability. 

Defensively, Alabama was impenetrable, not allowing a single point and stifling any offensive momentum from the Hilltoppers. Playing at home, the Crimson Tide are expected to continue dominating, with depth, speed, and discipline likely proving too much for South Florida to handle.

Given Alabama's superior talent, depth, and home-field advantage, they are heavily favored to win this game in a blowout. South Florida, while coming off a strong performance, faces a significant step up in competition. Alabama should control the game on both sides of the ball, leading to a comfortable victory that solidifies a place among the nation’s elite teams. Final Score Prediction: Alabama wins and covers 49-10.