Florida vs Alabama betting players have been pouring over stats, past records and anything else they can find about the top two teams in the nation that have been on a collision course since last year’s SEC title game. But it all comes down to one position: quarterback.

Florida vs Alabama betting – Saturday, December 5, 4:00 PM ET

The No.1 Gators (12-0, 8-0) enter this game with the top-ranked defense in the country, led by linebacker Brandon Spikes. The entire unit from last year’s national-championship unit came back for another run, and they haven’t disappointed, leading the nation in fewest points allowed. The offense hasn’t been as explosive as previous Florida teams, but they’re still sixth in rushing, led by Tim Tebow, who is aiming to win his second Heisman and third BCS crown as a Gator.

The No.2 Crimson Tide (12-0, 8-0) are third defensively, led by future NFL picks, linebacker Rolando McClain and corner Javier Arenas. Alabama showed some weakness in the “Iron Bowl”, giving up two early scores to Auburn, but then the defense stepped up their games and made some big plays. Running back Mark Ingram’s Heisman chances went down with a poor outing at Auburn, but it gave pivot Greg McElroy a chance to show that he could carry the load when needed. McElroy made some clutch throws to beat the Tigers, showing that Alabama isn’t a one-man offense.

Florida vs Alabama betting odds in your online sportsbook have the Gators as a 5.5-point favorite, and they’re 4-2 in six SEC title games against the Crimson Tide. Last year’s game went to Florida by a score of 31-20, with Tebow engineering a fourth-quarter comeback. The Gators and Crimson Tide are so evenly matched on both sides of the ball that it’s going to come down to play at quarterback, and again, you have to give the edge to Florida. McElroy is a good quarterback and all, but Tebow has proven throughout his career that he makes the big plays when it counts. Tebow is the difference in these Florida vs Alabama betting odds.

Sports betting pick: Florida -5.5