Saturday Selections: Week 7 SEC Gambling Picks Against the Spread

Oct 4, 2014; Oxford, MS, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide defensive back Maurice Smith (21) reacts after a touchdown by Mississippi Rebels running back Jaylen Walton (not pictured) during the second half at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports

#7 Alabama (-9) at Arkansas, 5PM CT, ESPN

Arkansas had an opportunity two weeks ago to pick up a huge win over SEC West opponent Texas A&M (which would have been the first SEC win in more than a year for the Razorbacks), but it wasn’t meant to be.

More from Auburn Football

• Ex-star Auburn DL confronts ‘slant man’ in MNF post-game video
• Ex-Auburn star laments not getting to face fellow Heisman candidate
• Analyst expects third-year RB to take AU rushing lead from surprising transfer
• Hugh Freeze was the right hire to truly embrace Auburn
• Auburn football Jack LB: ‘We’ve got to earn our respect back’

Now, the Hogs have had to sit around with a nasty taste in their mouths and prepare for a home game against Alabama. The bye week should do them good. Arkansas can match up with anyone because of a strong rushing attack and their grind it out mentality.

However, the Tide should be wide-awake now that Ole Miss upset them a week ago. Nick Saban and company have likely rallied the troops and gotten things focused again. Keep in mind, just because Alabama lost doesn’t mean they are out of the National Championship discussion, and in fact, two of the last three Tide teams to win the national title lost a regular season game.

This game features two teams that can score early and often. With the game at home, and with an extra week to prepare, Arkansas could even pull the outright upset. I think Alabama will win, but it will be close. Take Arkansas.

Alabama 35, Arkansas 28