ROSE BOWL (in Texas) -- This is easily the largest spread in the history of the College Football Playoff, and Alabama's offense is ridiculous. DeVonta Smith (William Hill betting favorite) probably wins the Heisman on Tuesday and Mac Jones likely finishes second. That said, the Tide defense is not great. I believe oddsmakers are overreacting to Notre Dame's blowout loss to Clemson in the ACC title game. Do I think the Irish can win here? No, but this will be the best defensive team Alabama has seen and I'm sure Notre Dame can score at least 24 on that Tide defense. Alabama is great on offense and awful on defense ... what year is this? Another prediction: This will be Brian Kelly's final game at Notre Dame as an NFL team will lure him.

I’m looking for the Irish to give Alabama a scare similar to how Florida did in the SEC Championship Game. Bama has won all its games (8-3 ATS) with a great offense, but its defense gave up 19.5 points and 351.2 yards per game this year, not your typical Nick Saban-coached Tide defense. I took the points with Notre Dame.

ROSE BOWL -- You have to have an explosive offense to keep pace with Alabama since the Crimson Tide dictate style on their opponents. Notre Dame doesn't have that. While quarterback Ian Book and the running game are solid, it's not going to be enough to get to 40 or more points against the Tide defense. Let's be honest ... you have to get to 40 to have a chance. Take the Tide, lay the points and enjoy the ride.

ROSE BOWL (in Texas) -- Notre Dame plays the type of offensive game that Alabama would love to play. And while Fighting Irish QB Ian Book presents a challenge with his ability to escape and create with his legs, Notre Dame's passing game doesn't have the quick-strike capability Florida possesses in order to keep Alabama's defense on its heels.