I'd love to see Auburn win this game just to throw a monkey wrench into the playoffs equation, and even if Alabama lost and didn't play in the SEC title game I think they still deserve to make it like Ohio State recently did. However, in this spot they get the win. It's what Alabama routinely does in big games. It's what Saban instills in his guys to be prepared for. Bama has covered 12 of their past 16 road games. Roll Tide, get that cover.

Auburn’s defense is really good. The TIgers' offense is still hit-or-miss in my opinion. What I do like is how Alabama’s offense, led by QB Jalen Hurts, is good at avoiding mistakes. Hurts has quietly become one of the more efficient passers in the nation. Lay the points.

There is no iron deficiency in this captivating Iron Bowl. Auburn is on a big-time roll. Alabama is same old, same old. The Crimson Tide has sold me for their unparalleled knack of escaping tight games with a win. One reason is a defense that allows 2.7 yards per carry, tied as the nation’s best, and just two rushes permitted all season for 30-plus yards. Another is preternaturally calm QB Jalen Hurts, who has thrown a single interception this year. Bama’s linebackers are banged up, but Christian Miller (biceps) is likely to return and others who have been rehabbing might join him. At Alabama, Nick Saban is 7-3 straight-up against his blood rival, and one defeat came on the flukiest of plays — a long touchdown return on a missed field goal. The Tide was more attractive when the line opened at three. The movement merely means the public has this one right.