NCAAF Odds: Clemson Tigers Get Another Shot at 'Bama

It's "déjà vu" set for College Football's National Championship on Monday Night as Alabama and Clemson square off again for the title. The game will be broadcast at 8:15PM EST on ESPN from Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida.

Last year, the Crimson Tide defeated the Tigers 45-40 to win it all, but that's not the only reason it feels like "we've been here before". At that time, Alabama was a 6-point favorite at every top online sportsbook and in Las Vegas. Currently the Tide are again a -6 favorite over Clemson. Although that might vary a half point by kickoff time, indications are very balanced action and little expected change.

Alabama backers can't be faulted for their loyalty. Besides their undefeated record and tremendous succession of victories the Crimson Tide have been equally impressive against the spread this season with a 10-4 record. That of course, is rooted in their amazing defense and parade of talent that graduates into the NFL. How much departed defensive coordinator Lane Kiffin will make here is unknown. He will not be on the sidelines Monday night after being booted by head coach Nick Saban, while on his way to lead FAU.

Clemson has been almost as good at 13-1 except for their upset loss to offensive powerhouse Pitt. Bettors might be a little less confident because of their 7-7 ATS record but by far they have the better QB in Deshaun Watson. This will be Watson's last game at Clemson before likely being one of the first few choices taken in this year's NFL draft.

The head scratcher is Clemson's defense. They gave up 43 points to Pitt and 36 earlier in the season in their big win versus Louisville. Then completely shut down Ohio St. last week 31-0 to get to this big game. The current Total line for the Over/Under at Bovada is 51 and has not moved. Potentially because many are not sure which way this game is likely to go. Will it echo last year's shoot-out or will Clemson continue to play great defense with Alabama to prove supremacy?

It might seem incentive may be a bit on the Tigers side as they haven't claimed a National Championship since 1981. Alabama has won four titles since Saban has taken over the program (2009, 2011, 2012, 2015). Then again, keep in mind that college players graduate and there are many NEW players on this Crimson Tide team. And no concern of "motivation" with taskmaster Saban in the locker room.

Prop till You Drop Monday

Almost as popular as Super Bowl Sunday, preferred sportsbook Bovada features dozens of proposition wagers on their menu to keep bettors entertained throughout the College National Championship game. Special bets, game props, touchdown, rushing and receiving props, plus defensive props are all available. Here's a few of the dozens available I would recommend:

Total Over/Under Points – Alabama

Over 29 (-120)
Under 29 (-120)

After dominating Ohio St. last week, I cannot envision Alabama running up the score like last year. Nor can we count on the customary defensive points they seem to have gotten every game this season. I like UNDER here. The only worry would be the overtime possibility.

Will a Defensive or Special Teams TD be scored?

Yes +125
No -165

As previously mentioned, this bet is highly weighted because of Alabama's record of scoring defensive touchdowns. Also, a bit because of Clemson's solid special teams. The tremendous value here is IF this was any other college football game the odds for "No" would be around -300. I say bet NO and take a generous -165.

Overall, this is one very challenging game to handicap the traditional point spread and Over/Under lines. Maybe not a bad idea to read through Bovada's extensive prop menu to pick your preferred choices. And to warm-up for the Super Bowl. Only a month away...

Glenn Greene covers the games from a betting angle every week exclusively at OSGA.com. For weekly betting insights, inlcuding previews and picks from Glenn, click here.